Teens who are starting to figure out where they fit along the LGBTQIA+ spectrum may find themselves feeling alienated from their peers and even their family. That kind of isolation can drive them to seek out drugs and alcohol as a form of relief. That can make the symptoms of already existing problems like depression or anxiety even worse. Destinations for Teens provides a safe place for teens of all backgrounds to overcome their addiction struggles and find more positivity out of life.
How Does Addiction Affect Teens?
Teenagers often feel compelled to fit in with others in their peer group. Anything that makes them stand out, like identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, can make them feel ostracized. While education around sexuality and gender continues to improve, many young people grow up in communities where acceptance is still a struggle. That can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression causing teens to self-medicate using drugs and alcohol. There’s data suggesting that teens who identify as LGBTQIA+ can be more prone to having substance abuse issues. They may drink excessive amounts of alcohol that can develop into an addiction. Some may be tempted to try drugs like heroin or meth, leading them down a dark and dangerous path. One of the biggest dangers of any addiction is the potential for an overdose. Taking too much of an opioid drug can cause you to overdose and fall into a coma or even die. Drinking too much can lead to alcohol poisoning that results in death. Destinations for Teens wants to help young people avoid this fate by providing them with the resources necessary to overcome their need for drugs and alcohol.
What Are the Signs of Addiction in Teens?
If a teen cannot discontinue drug or alcohol use even after experiencing the harmful side effects, they are likely in the grips of addiction. Other physical and psychological addiction that may occur include:
- Headaches
- Sweats
- Chills
- Seizures
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Experience cravings
- Participating in risky behavior
- Stealing money to pay for a habit
- Inability to stop drinking or using drugs
- Thoughts of self-harm
For your teen, the idea of getting clean and sober can seem impossible. Destinations for Teens understands the issues around LGBTQIA+ substance use among teens. We can help them find ways of coping with issues of acceptance without resorting to drugs or alcohol.
What Is the National Day of Silence?
The National Day of Silence is a national protest led by students focusing on LGBTQIA+ mental health and substance abuse issues. Many teenagers may feel as though they don’t have a voice when it comes to talking about issues around sexuality and gender. The National Day of Silence consists of various rallies, assemblies, and other events targeted at those who control decisions affecting LTGTQIA+ youth. Parents who have teens who fall into the LGBTQIA+ spectrum can educate themselves to form a deeper connection with their children. The information can help break down barriers that might have prevented a teen from coming to them about what they were going through. Pulling down the walls of silence around issues affecting LGBTQIA+ youth gives teens space to breathe. They can find the strength needed to overcome substance abuse issues holding them back in life.
Find Support and Acceptance at Destination for Teens
The problems that LGBTQIA+ youth face can drive them to problematic behavior. Destinations for Teens helps young people find healthier ways of expressing themselves. Teens learn techniques they can apply in the real world to keep themselves from relapsing.
- Residential Treatment Program
- Partial Hospitalization Program
- Intensive Outpatient Program
- Therapeutic Services
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment
If you’re looking for an environment where your LGBTQIA+ teen can thrive and find complete acceptance, contact Destination for Teens at 877.466.0620.
References: Eres, R., Postolovski, N., Thielking, M., & Lim, M. H. (2020). Loneliness, mental health, and social health indicators in LGBTQIA+ Australians. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry. Advance online publication.