Drug Addiction in Gay/Lesbian Victims of Bullying

Drug Addiction in Gay-Lesbian Victims of BullyingLong-term bullying can psychologically damage its victims, witnesses and the bullies themselves. Many gay and lesbian individuals have faced this kind of bullying for much of their lives and may experience a wide range of long-term emotional effects.

Psychological Effects of Bullying

According to the online resource www.StopBullying.gov (sponsored by the US Departments of Health and Human Services, Education and Justice) bullying creates the following long-term psychological disorders:

  • Bullies are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol, become involved in criminal activity, engage in violent behavior, begin sexual activity at a younger age and are more likely to be abusive toward other adults and children later in life.
  • Those who witness bullying have increased uses of tobacco, alcohol and drugs, have increased mental health problems and are more likely to skip school.
  • Victims of bullying have a higher risk of anxiety disorders and depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, have increased physical health problems and are more likely to become abusive of others. Of the 15 school shooting incidents in the US, all but three of the shooters had been victims of bullying.

The majority of all addicts suffer from at least one co-occurring mental disorder. The relationship between bullying and addiction is clear: successful treatment for addiction for victims of bullying requires careful, comprehensive treatment of both problems.

Addiction Recovery for Gay/Lesbian Victims of Bullying

Treatment plans for gay and lesbian victims of bullying involve integrated treatment of the physical and psychological components of the disease, along with all underlying conditions. Individual treatment plans are developed that include several of the following elements:

  • Personal counseling
  • Support group meetings
  • Tactical therapy such as dialectical behavior therapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • 12-step programs
  • Spiritual care
  • Meditation, yoga and other new-age treatments
  • Introduction to healthy new coping and relaxation skills
  • Opportunities to serve others

Integrated treatment has been highly effective, and many gay and lesbian addicts have found lasting recovery from their addictions.

Addiction Help for Gay/Lesbian Victims of Bullying

If you or someone you know is struggling to recover from addiction, please call our 24 hour, toll-free helpline any time of day or night. Our addiction counselors are well versed in the intricacies of treatment for the gay and lesbian community. We can connect you with the best possible program to help you recover from the psychological disorders associated with bullying. Let us help you end the cycle of pain and destruction you have endured for so long. The call is free and confidential, so you have nothing to lose. Call today.