Substance and Alcohol Abuse
Research suggests that sexual orientation may be determined very early in childhood. Generally, the initial feeling is one of being different from family and friends. Studies from the USA have shown that gay men and lesbians are self-identifying as gay at about the age of 16 years and that this age may drop further in time as increased access to information on LGBT issues becomes available. Many young LGBT people at this time find the need to socialise with their own type incredibly important; it is a way of confirming their sexual identity, gender and of developing relationships with people who can share their experiences. In the absence of LGBT youth services, gay pubs and clubs are used to meet the social needs of young LGBT people. The risk here is that young LGBT people are exposing themselves to an environment that has a prevalent drugs and alcohol culture. The lack of self worth experienced by many of these young people make them easy targets for substance abuse and addiction.
In a USA survey, LGB young people reported far more use of crack cocaine, marijuana, alcohol and inhalants than their heterosexual peers.
There are a range of links to further information and help with all the issues above at the top of this page. We also have a links page for these and other organisations.
