The trans and queer community may see an uptick in substance use issues as a result of new attacks and discriminatory bills

It is difficult to escape the seemingly endless updates announcing the latest bills, laws, and other attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. Trans and queer people are already uniquely affected by substance use and mental health issues. What will likely come next, as a result of these attacks, is an uptick in substance use.

Discrimination toward the LGBTQ+ community often leads them down the road to substance use

The LGBTQ+ community faces discrimination all around the world. There are even many countries where homosexuality is still criminalized. Even though there are anti-discrimination practices in the United States, LGBTQ+ people are denied jobs, places to live, and services based on their gender or sexual orientation each and every day.

The experiences of this community can lead transgender and queer people towards using substances to cope. Sometimes they are dealing with harassment in their daily lives, other times they are trying to stop thinking about the anti-LGBTQ legislation and attacks that are constantly heading their way. 

This year has been one of the worst for the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to bills, laws, and other attacks

There were more than 250 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in state legislatures last year. 2021 was even referred to as the deadliest year of violence against transgender and gender non-conforming people. Back in March of 2022, there were already 238 bills filed targeting the LGBTQ community. By the end of this year, this number could be much higher than it was in 2021, making it even deadlier.

No matter how you slice it, nearly 670 anti-LGBTQ bills have been filed since 2018. Nearly every day feels like we are taking a step backward. It is challenging to cope as an LGBTQ+ person in this world. This community faces constant attacks on a local level, and way beyond. 

As if the harmful bills and laws aren’t enough, LGBTQ people are surrounded by hateful news and events too. Every year, pride events are targeted and attacks are made against LGBTQ+ people. Gay bars, which are supposed to be safe havens for this community, are ambushed. This happens all over the world. Just last month, a gunman went to Oslo Pride and killed two people and injured many more. 

It can be difficult to feel safe showing your true colors, which is exactly how homophobic and hateful people want this community to feel.

How can Inspire Recovery help?

At Inspire Recovery, we understand the importance of accessible LGBTQ resources specifically catered to this community. An important part of the work we do is providing care that is tailored to the unique topics, experiences, and traumas that affect the LGBTQ community. From our Day or Night LGBTQ Program to gender affirming therapy, we’ve got you. 

This community faces higher rates of mental distress, depression, and substance use as it is. At Inspire Recovery, we understand the need for accessible treatment that is planned around our patients. Inspire Recovery may be the trauma-informed substance use and mental health treatment center you need.