Alcoholism is a fatal chronic illness affecting the lives of 20 to 30% of the homosexual population (Ziebold & Mongeon, 1982). Studies have found that 35% of lesbians had a history of excessive drinking, compared to only 5% of the heterosexual women in the sample (Saghir, 1970; Lewis, 1982). Approximately 30% of lesbians and gay men are addicted to drugs (Rofes, 1983). The facts show that the homosexual community constitutes …read more

It is important not to assume that homosexuality causes drug or alcohol abuse. When gays, lesbians and bisexuals internalize society’s homophobic attitudes and beliefs, the results can be devastating. Society’s hatred becomes self-hatred. As a minority group; gays, lesbians and bisexuals are victims of systemic and ongoing oppression. It can lead to feelings of alienation, despair, low self-esteem, self-destructive behaviour, and substance abuse (Nicoloff & Stiglitz, 1987). Some gays, lesbians …read more

The first step toward getting help is recognizing that your substance abuse is a problem. This is rarely easy. The following is a list of questions, though not inclusive, that you should ask yourself. Do you feel irritated when other people comment on how much you drink/use drugs? Do you ever drink or use drugs when you are alone? Have you had periods of time while you were drinking or …read more

It is commonly believed that factors such as stigma, denial, alienation, discrimination, and the cultural importance of bars place lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals at higher risk of developing problems with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD). Although we need much more research before we can substantiate this belief, we do know one thing: many issues need to be understood and addressed by prevention professionals working with lesbian, gay, and …read more