How can we help those in the LGBTQIA+ community who are struggling?

photo credit: meaws.com

Pride month is approaching, and while many use this time to show pride for who they are at soul level, it is also a time to discuss how we can better our community. The LGBTQIA+ community has a higher risk of mental health issues and substance use than other groups. This is all due to the fact that society hasn't fully accepted our community. 

With LGBTQIA+ youth, it is especially difficult. Being young is tough enough, add in being LGBTQIA+ and you have a very stressful situation that young minds cannot handle on their own. While kids these days have role models in JoJo Siwa, Jazz Jennings, Josie Totah, and YouTuber Connor Franta, it isn't enough to give queer/trans kids the strength they need to live their truth. LGBTQIA+ youth may resort to substance use in order to numb the incredible turmoil spreading throughout their soul like wildfire. In LGBTQIA+ youth, the odds of substance abuse are 190% higher than heterosexual youth. 

Let's look at some more stats:

• Alcohol Use:
  60% of LGBTQIA+ individuals over the age of 12 have an Alcohol Use Disorder.
• Prescription Drugs:
  16% of the LGBTQIA+ community misuses prescription drugs.
• Hallucinogens:
  LGBTQIA+ youth 12-18 (2%), LGBTQIA+ 18+ (8.4%)
• Inhalants (such as those found in household items):
  LGBTQIA+ young adults (1.7%), LGBTQIA+ adults over 26 (0.4%).
• Methamphetamines:
  LGBTQIA+ adults over 18 (3%)
• Heroin:
  1% of the LGBTQIA+ adult population uses heroin. 

These numbers are chilling, but people in our community turn to these outlets because they cannot bear the bullying and society's hatred toward them. LGBTQIA+ individuals have 3 times the odds of experiencing a mental health crisis. Looking at the numbers and hearing the stories, there is an immense need for resources.  

Bicycle Health is an online clinic that specializes in behavioral health, med management, support groups, and more. Insurance is accepted. If you do not have insurance, you can still receive help for $199/month. For that amount, you receive unlimited instant messaging, doctor visits, care navigations, online support groups, and counseling. 
To learn more, visit: https://www.bicyclehealth.com/

This Pride month, and beyond, we need to share more resources for those in our community who are struggling and help them to feel better. 

(stats found on: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in LGBTQ+ Community | Bicycle Health)