GOAL LGBT Alcohol Support
Research in the LGBT community suggests that alcohol abuse and dependence occurs at even higher rates than in the mainstream population.
Independent studies collectively support the estimate alcohol abuse occurs in the LGBT community at rates up to three times that in the mainstream population. Said another way, alcohol abuse is estimated to occur in up to 45% of those in the LGBT community. Studies suggest that up to 25% of the LGBT population have difficulty controlling their alcohol use.
Alcohol abuse can result from the stress and difficulty of dealing with the heterosexist assumptions and discrimination that is faced by many within the LGBT community. A tradition of socialising in bars and clubs among many LGBT people may exacerbate the risk of developing problematic drinking behaviour.
Download the new Spectrum/University of Brighton Report
Download the new report on gay and bisexual men / alcohol and drugs
When you are starting to address your alcohol dependency, or recovering from addiction and the associated psychological, emotional and health issues, you already have enough to deal with. Your sexuality shouldn’t be seen as another one of your problems.
At GOAL LGBT you will be one of a group of like-minded people. Being LGBT is the norm, not the exception. Many of our members are dealing with a combination of addiction, depression, anxiety and physical health problems. We understand your issues and want to help you to live a happy, healthy life as a sober and proud LGBT person.
We recognise the need for a person to have a “safe setting” in which to discuss issues without being judged, and to that end we have started an LGBT outreach service at our GOAL Kemp Town venue (Crypt Community Centre, St George’s Church).
Named LGBT contact: Mark Mills