In a world where the dangers of substance addiction are well-documented, and campaigns like “Just Say NO” have tried to deter us from harmful habits, it’s crucial to recognize that many individuals, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community, turn to substances as a coping mechanism. The FDA’s declaration of youth vaping as an “epidemic” in 2018 underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of addiction.
September marks National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate those on the path to recovery from substance addiction. One common misconception about addiction is that it’s merely a matter of choice. This misconception parallels the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals navigating a hostile world and those coping with addiction during challenging times.
For many, addiction is not a choice but a response to external pressures, just as being discriminated against for one’s sexual orientation is not a choice. Recent events, such as the Orange Unified School District’s adoption of a policy potentially endangering trans and non-binary students, highlight the continued struggles faced by LGBTQ+ youth. These challenges can contribute to increased stress, leading individuals to seek tangible coping mechanisms, including tobacco products.
The tobacco industry has a long history of targeting the LGBTQ+ community through advertisements and sponsorships of Pride events, exploiting the trauma many LGBTQ+ individuals experience. This targeted marketing has dire consequences, including delayed access to trans-affirming care and elevated rates of premature death within the queer community.
Addressing LGBTQ+ tobacco use requires more than just saying no; it demands systemic change. It necessitates accessible mental health care, livable wages, and stable housing. Initiatives like We Breathe, a program by the LGBTQ+ Health and Human Services Network, aim to create this systemic change and reduce the reliance on tobacco within the LGBTQ+ community.
Eliminating tobacco from LGBTQ+ lives means tackling the root causes of addiction: depression, stress, and anxiety, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to other serious health issues. While the fight against tobacco corporations like Juul and Philip Morris may seem daunting, the LGBTQ+ community has a history of resilience and advocacy. We must continue working towards a future where systemic change leads to healthier lives for all LGBTQ+ individuals.
