Sections
Gay Men and Lesbians: Introduction | A Short Review of the Modern Understanding of Sexual Orientation | Epidemiology of Substance Use and Abuse by Gay Men
and Lesbians | Factors That Contribute to the Predisposition to
Substance Use and Abuse | Assessment, Intervention, and Treatment Considerations | Specific Issues in the Treatment and Recovery of
Gay Men and Lesbians | Types and Patterns of Substances Abused | Conclusion | Key Points | References | Suggested Reading
Excerpt
Gay men and lesbians, as well as bisexual men
and women and transgender people, require a special consideration
in any literature focused on substance use, abuse, and treatment.
Gay men and lesbians (the groups most studied) have higher rates
of alcohol use and drug use than the general population, have higher
rates of mood and anxiety disorders, and may respond best to gay-sensitive
and gay-affirmative treatments. In addition, gay men are more likely
to use and abuse "club drugs" and, in particular,
methamphetamine—the use of which in some cities is described
as at epidemic or crisis levels. Furthermore, risky behaviors, such
as unprotected anal intercourse or sharing needles, that expose
people to HIV and AIDS often occur under the influence of alcohol and
drugs, so gay men who use such drugs may be at greater risk. Finally,
transgender people—although not as well studied—seem
to have very high rates of substance use and will need specific
help when entering treatment.