Alcohol Use as a Part of LGBT Culture
Bars were one of the first places gay men and women could gather and live a more open life. It was illegal to be openly homosexual, but certain bars became known as safe places for gays to be open about their sexuality. Today gay bars can create a sense of community in gay neighborhoods and be a place where people can go and not risk harassment. A bar may be the only openly gay business nearby where people can be themselves and meet potential partners. This can lead to regular drinking that may turn into alcohol abuse or addiction.
Discrimination for Sexual Identity Can Lead to Alcohol Abuse
While gay rights have come a long way, many gays still grow up being verbally or physically abused, harassed or told constantly that who they are and what they do is wrong. This creates long-lasting feelings of guilt and low self-worth and can cause a person to rebel against normal society and feel like an outcast. The effects of internalizing this bullying can cause a person to drink as a way to deal with depression or anxiety. LGBT individuals may also see excessive drinking as less of a problem than society as a whole, because they are rebelling against public opinion and commonly held views in many areas of life.
Alcohol Companies Advertise Directly to the Gay Market
Gay Pride and other events in support of gay rights are often supported by beer and liquor companies. Alcohol companies will sponsor an event, because they know it will increase sales, but that doesn’t mean they care about the well-being of those who are drinking. Free drinks and cheap drink specials promote overindulgence and can contribute to alcohol abuse and addiction problems. In recent years there has been a small backlash against this encouragement of unhealthy lifestyle choices, but alcohol abuse is still accepted if not embraced in the gay community.
Social Drinking Lowers Sexual Inhibitions for Gays and Lesbians
Alcohol is often used to calm nerves on a date or when trying to ask someone out. LGBT individuals may be more uncomfortable with their sexual identity than heterosexuals, especially when they first come out, and may be more likely to use alcohol as a way to relax. Indulging can be associated with the freedom of coming out and being open about who you are and may inspire heavy drinking that becomes a habit. In any dating scene it is not uncommon for people to meet sexual and romantic partners at bars and clubs. This may be more true in the gay community due to its smaller population and the need for a common place to meet potential partners.
LGBT Individuals Reject Traditional Values That Discriminate Against Them
Religious organizations and conservative beliefs often reject or persecute homosexuality, and in turn gays and lesbians often rebel against conservative moral values. They may unconsciously reject any conservative ideals to the point of embracing unhealthy lifestyles such as one that regularly involves drinking irresponsibly. There is also pressure within the gay community to not be judgmental towards others or themselves for any perceived moral failing which may lead to self-denial about the consequences of alcoholism. LGBT individuals may also feel that traditional addiction recovery help will not accept them for who they are or provide effective treatment. However rehab programs exist that embrace the gay community and provide treatment that embraces finding a healthy and happy life as a LGBT individual.
LGBT-Friendly Help for Alcohol Abuse
You can live a healthy and fulfilling life as a LGBT individual, and you don’t have to do it with alcohol. If alcohol is causing problems in your life, call us today to find out about gay-friendly treatment options. Our helpline is available 24 hours a day, and all calls and phone services are free and confidential.
