What are the Effects of Teen GLBT Substance Abuse?
There are several potential dangers to teenage substance abuse in the gay, lesbian and bisexual community. These include: • Physical health issues. During the teenage years, young bodies are developing in important ways. Brain functioning, reproductive organs and other key processes are all at risk when the developing teen or adolescent engages in substance abuse. • Mental health issues. When a gay or lesbian teenage begins using drugs in an attempt to escape their problems, it can actually make those problems worse by making depression and other mental health concerns more severe. • Criminal issues. Within the gay community, many young men who fall into a spiral of drug addiction or substance abuse may find themselves turning to a life of crime in order to support their habit. This can lead to prostitution or drug dealing within the gay community that is destructive for the individual and the community as a whole. • Issues in adulthood. When a teenager of any sexual preference develop
