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Gay Teenagers and Drugs


            Flashing lights, thumping bass, pounding hearts, and the reflections of crystal meth. The reflections aren't just those of the crystal, but the reflections of those using it. The scene is all too common in gay and lesbian environments, and dangerously common in gay youth. What makes the gay society, and the youth of such a group, so prone to use such substances? Is it the easily altered mind of youth that starts this trend, or is it the fact that society pushes gays away? The issue is just as pertinent today as it is for tomorrow. .
             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 gays and lesbians to meet each other safely. Clubs and bars are primary gathering places for gay groups. Statistically, clubs and bars have a high rate of drug and alcohol use. At the same time, these establishments promote a glamorous and guilt-free lifestyle. It is an "anything goes" attitude, and it is all too easy for people to become entangled in the scene. The younger years constitute a point when more mature social skills and habits are formed. At a time in life when minds are so easily altered, this behavior is seen as a gateway to acceptance and can lead to a pattern of future behaviors.
             Society often tends to outcast those that are different. As gay children grow, they are blasted with ideas of worthlessness and rejection.


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