Approximately forty percent of gay men are addicted to drugs. Twenty percent of this population could be classified as young adults . According to the Pride Institute, it has been estimated that one out of every three gays and lesbians struggles with chemical dependency every day. In a study of 218 gay and bisexual youth (ages 14-25), 41.3 percent had used a non-prescription drug and 38.5 percent had used alcohol . Males reported a higher use rate among both substances. The facts show that there is prevalent usage among the homosexual community with regard to alcoholism and drug abuse. This leads us to question why the facts are so.

Homophobia in our society has limited the opportunities for gay

As in most groups, “members” often try to get others to join. In the gay scene, drugs and alcohol are often used to attract others. Individuals may take such an offer as a sign of being wanted, feeling important, and being accepted. Aside from this fact, young people are often curious and experiment with the drugs or other substances. The drugs become more captivating when they are presented at a free or discounted price. If used, the user might develop a chemical dependency to the drug.

When growing up, sexual orientation is often withheld from other peers. For this reason, gay adolescents are lured to interact with people much older than themselves. They seek acceptance from the adult population, and tend to participate in what the elders may push upon them. This situation exposes the youth to drugs, alcohol, and other illicit activities that are often widespread among a more mature lifestyle.

Many drugs and other mind altering substances are often seen as an escape from the real world. Substance abuse often begins in early adolescence when teenagers first begin to struggle with their sexual orientation. Having to hide your identity and deal with homophobic comments and attitudes can have a profound effect on you. In response to this overwhelming opp

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