LGBT Marijuana Addiction

The LGBT community experiences a high rate of marijuana experimentation, regular use and addiction. In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), marijuana use among both lesbian and gay populations occurs at a higher rate than in the general public. For many in the LGBT community, marijuana addiction begins with a single experimentation, and often develops into addiction – sometimes alongside alcoholism or other forms of drug use.

Factors Involved in LGBT Marijuana Addiction

Speculative reasons for increased marijuana use among the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender population include social pressures, identity issues and untreated emotional trauma arising from assault and prejudice. In fact, SAMHSA and other government agencies have suggested in recent years that the presence of heterosexism and homophobia may account for much of the propensity for drug use among the LGBT population. Marijuana in particular often provides a temporary escape from the pain and pressure of the coming out process and the social isolation and rejection many LGBT individuals face, as the body responds to the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by triggering feelings of relaxation and calm.

Conversely, social pressures remain present within the LGBT community itself. Despite the LGBT community’s emphasis on tolerance, acceptance into social circles sometimes is met with elitism, racism and exclusivity in various areas of the country. Some individuals – particularly those in the bisexual and transgender communities – have found themselves ostracized by the gay and lesbian community itself. As with many community populations, age, gender, identifying orientation and ethnic lines sometimes factor into social acceptance in the LGBT community. As such, marijuana is often used as a social lubricant for those who feel they do not neatly fit into defined roles or social identifications.

Overcoming Marijuana Addiction in the LGBT Community

For many gay, bisexual, lesbian and transgendered individuals struggling with marijuana addiction, fears can arise at the prospect of receiving treatment. Locating a drug addiction treatment center that can provide compassionate and tolerant care can be a challenge, particularly in more conservative regions of the country. Additionally, many individuals in the LGBT community may fear social changes once they cease marijuana use. Others may not know how to cope with social, life or internal pressures without the daily use of marijuana, due to years of psychological addiction to the drug.

If you or a gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered loved one struggles with marijuana addiction, we invite you to call our confidential hotline to speak with an addiction referral counselor. Our specialists are available to the LGBT community 24/7, and can help guide you towards residential drug addiction programs that cater to the LGBT population and provide years of marijuana rehabilitation expertise. With one phone call to our toll-free hotline, you can start a journey to become free from marijuana addiction and take steps towards a healthier life of sobriety.