UPDATE: A groundbreaking study has revealed alarming connections between heterosexist discrimination and increased alcohol use among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ+) college students, particularly those of immigrant origin. The findings, published today in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, highlight urgent mental health concerns for this vulnerable demographic.
The study surveyed 691 LGBQ+ college students aged 18–25, with 177 participants (26%) identifying as being of immigrant origin. Researchers sought to understand how experiences of harassment and discrimination impact alcohol consumption patterns, particularly in the context of anxiety.
According to the study, LGBQ+ students from immigrant backgrounds are facing heightened risks associated with alcohol use. While both immigrant and non-immigrant students reported using alcohol to cope with anxiety, those of immigrant origin displayed a stronger correlation between distress from discrimination—such as name-calling and threats—and increased drinking behaviors.
The findings underscore a critical reality: distress caused by discrimination acts as a significant motivator for alcohol use among these students. Despite reporting lower overall alcohol consumption than their non-immigrant peers, LGBQ+ students of immigrant origin are particularly susceptible to drinking as a response to anxiety generated by their experiences.
Claudia A. Delbasso and her team emphasize the urgent need for targeted interventions that address these intersectional stressors. They recommend implementing programs that promote healthier coping mechanisms, such as emotional regulation and problem-solving strategies, tailored specifically for sexually minoritized students.
This important research not only sheds light on the struggles faced by LGBQ+ students but also calls for immediate action from educational institutions. With the mental health crisis among college students escalating, it is crucial to prioritize culturally appropriate supports and resources for these vulnerable groups.
As the study highlights, the impact of multiple forms of discrimination—both sexual and racial—must be acknowledged and addressed. Authorities must act quickly to develop strategies that mitigate the harmful effects of discrimination and promote healthier lifestyles among affected students.
This urgent study serves as a wake-up call to colleges and universities across the U.S. and beyond, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems that can effectively address the unique challenges faced by LGBQ+ students, especially those from immigrant backgrounds.
For more information, refer to the study by Delbasso et al. titled, “Anxiety coping motives moderate links between discrimination and alcohol use in immigrant-origin and non-immigrant LGBQ+ college students,” published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research.
