Breaking Barriers: Substance Use in the 2SLGBT+ Community with Amy C Willis
Rates of addiction and substance use in the LGBTQ+ community are significantly higher when we look at rates compared to the straight population.
Amy C Willis returns to 'Done with Debauchery' to shine a light on substance use and addiction within the 2SLGBT+ community. This episode dives into the unique challenges faced by this community, including higher addiction rates compared to the straight population. Amy, a cis queer woman who has battled alcohol addiction herself, offers a personal perspective that is both heartfelt and eye-opening. She discusses the historical role of gay bars as safe havens and how this intertwines with substance use.
The conversation doesn't shy away from the tough topics, like the lack of safe spaces and activities for queer youth and how early life trauma can set the stage for addiction later on. Amy and Keisha also explore how schools are evolving towards inclusivity, yet there's still much work to be done. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of addiction within the 2SLGBT+ community.
It's not just about statistics; it's about real lives and real stories that can help reframe how we think about substance use and support those affected.