Sexual Orientation-Based Discrimination, Excessive Alcohol Use, and Substance Use Disorders Among Sexual Minority Adults

Revisiting the Prevalence of Unhealthy Alcohol Use Among Ethnic Minority Immigrant Gay, Bisexual Men, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in North America: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Unhealthy alcohol use is a significant public health concern among ethnic minority immigrant gay, bisexual men, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in North America. The definition of unhealthy alcohol use is any use that increases the risk of health consequences or has already led to negative health consequences. Despite its association with various health problems, this issue remains understudied in this population. Therefore, we aim to synthesize key findings to provide the prevalence of unhealthy alcohol use and related factors among this population in North America. We conducted a comprehensive literature search in multiple scientific databases to identify studies on alcohol use among ethnic minority immigrant GBMSM. Using random-effect modeling strategies, we aggregate and weigh the individual estimates, providing a pooled prevalence of unhealthy alcohol use within this population. Our review included 20 articles with 2971 participants (i.e., 53% were Latino, 45% were Asian/Pacific Islanders, and 2% were African). The meta-analysis revealed that 64% (95% CI 0.50, 0.78) of the participants reported recent alcohol use, while 44% (95% CI 0.30, 0.59) engaged in unhealthy alcohol use. Co-occurring health issues identified in the studies are other substance use (32%; 95% CI 0.21, 0.45), positive HIV status (39%; 95% CI 0.14, 0.67), and mental health issues (39%; 95% CI 0.21, 0.58). We also identified several factors associated with unhealthy alcohol use, including risky sexual behaviors, experiences of discrimination based on race and sexual orientation, and experiences of abuse. However, meta-regression results revealed no statistically significant associations between alcohol use and co-occurring health problems. This is the first study to systematically review unhealthy alcohol use among ethnic minority immigrant GBMSM. Despite the high burden of alcohol use, there is a dearth of research among Asian and African GBMSM. Our findings underscore the need for more research in these groups and provide insights to inform targeted clinical prevention and early intervention strategies to mitigate the adverse consequences of unhealthy alcohol use among ethnic minority immigrant GBMSM.

Sociocultural Implications in the Development of Early Maladaptive Schemas in Adolescents Belonging to Sexual and Gender Minorities

Culture is a central theme across various theories and disciplines, influencing behavior and self-perception through interactions within social groups, families, and legal systems. This influence extends to the general population and particularly impacts sexual and gender minorities (SGMs), resulting in minority stress that contributes to mental health issues and the development of Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMSs). Adolescents within these groups face typical developmental stressors-such as hormonal changes and societal pressures-compounded by prejudice, increasing their vulnerability to depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Despite these challenges, Schema Therapy (ST) lacks comprehensive studies on the sociocultural aspects influencing EMS acquisition in SGM adolescents. This theoretical review aims to fill this gap by exploring the impact of society and culture on EMS development within SGM adolescents. We recognize the broad spectrum of cultural influences and emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity and diversity. This review specifically addresses how societal and cultural dynamics impact SGM individuals, acknowledging that while ethnic or other cultural factors are not the focus of this paper, they merit future research. This manuscript will discuss central topics and their impact on LGBTQIA+ youth, including (1) the background (definition of culture, lack of studies on ST focusing on culture, and studies on adverse psychological outcomes), (2) minority stress theory and prejudice against sexual and gender diversity (distal and proximal stressors and sociocultural aspects), (3) EMSs and unmet emotional needs, (4) ST affirmative strategies (working with schema modes, imagery rescripting, chair work, and photo techniques), and (5) final considerations (limitations and research agenda).

Associations Between Sexual Minority Status, Hazardous Drinking, and Discrimination Experiences Among Criminal Legal-Involved Adults in the Southern PrEP Cohort (SPECS) Study

OBJECTIVE

Separately, individuals with criminal legal involvement (CLI) and those who identify as a sexual minority are at heightened risk for experiencing discrimination and engaging in hazardous alcohol use; however, little is known about the prevalence of these experiences and behaviors among sexual minority individuals who also have a history of CLI.

METHOD

We examined experiences of discrimination and hazardous alcohol use reported by individuals with CLI and compared prevalence between those who identify as a sexual minority and those who do not. Baseline, cross-sectional data of cisgender sexual minority individuals from a multisite, prospective cohort study examining pre-exposure prophylaxis acceptability and uptake among criminal legal-involved adults were analyzed (N = 362, 14% sexual minority).

RESULTS

Hazardous alcohol consumption was nearly twice as prevalent among participants who identified as a sexual minority compared to heterosexual participants, and a sexual minority identity was associated with higher discrimination scores. Additionally, hazardous drinking was more prevalent among those with higher discrimination scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that sexual minority individuals with a history of CLI are an especially high-risk group given the elevated rates of discrimination and hazardous alcohol use observed. More research is needed to further investigate the risk behaviors of this population and to develop interventions to intervene on their physical and mental health.

Examining the Influence of Pre-HAART Experiences on Older, Self-Identifying Gay Men's Contemporary Constructions of Quality of Life (QOL)

Some older gay men (50+) experience diminished quality of life (QOL) due to historical and ongoing discrimination in addition to living through a collective trauma-the pre-HAART era of the HIV/AIDS epidemic-characterized by the absence of treatment and rampant discrimination targeting gay men. A growing body of literature, however, illustrates that older gay men demonstrate remarkable resilience but little is known about how QOL is conceptualized and how these conceptualizations are potentially shaped by pre-HAART experiences. The current study drew on constructivist grounded theory methods to examine how QOL is conceptualized in light of the sociohistorical relevance of pre-HAART. Twenty Canadian based gay men aged 50+ participated in semi-structured interviews via Zoom. Ultimately, QOL is understood as experiencing contentment, which is made possible by the development and implementation of three key processes: (1) developing and cultivating meaningful connections, (2) growing into and embracing identity, and (3) appreciating the capacity to do what brings joy. QOL for this group is greatly informed by a context of disadvantage, and the demonstrated resilience warrants further investigation to meaningfully support the overall well-being of older gay men.

Ethnic Discrimination, Sexual Orientation Discrimination, and DSM-5 Alcohol Use Disorder Among U.S. Latino or Hispanic Adults

We aimed to assess the probability of past-year DSM-5 alcohol use disorder (AUD) and past-year moderate-to-severe DSM-5 AUD as a function of past-year ethnic discrimination among U.S. Latino/Hispanic adults and as a function of past-year discrimination types among Latino/Hispanic sexual minorities (SM). We used data from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (n = 36,309 U.S. adults aged ≥18 years). Our sample consisted of 6,954 Latino/Hispanic adults. Multivariable logistic regression analyses estimated the association of past-year ethnic discrimination with past-year AUD and past-year moderate-to-severe AUD among the overall Latino/Hispanic population. We tested the association between discrimination types (i.e. none, ethnic or sexual orientation discrimination, both) with AUD and moderate-to-severe AUD among Latino/Hispanic SM adults. Among Latino/Hispanic adults, 13.4% met criteria for past-year AUD and 6.4% met criteria for past-year moderate-to-severe AUD. Ethnic discrimination was significantly associated with AUD (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.07-1.12) and moderate-to-severe AUD (AOR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.06-1.13). Latino/Hispanic SMs who experienced both ethnic and sexual orientation discrimination were more likely to meet criteria for AUD (AOR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.97-6.03) and moderate-to-severe AUD (AOR = 2.69, 95% CI = 1.25-5.82) compared to those who did not experience discrimination. Discrimination is a risk factor for AUD and moderate-to-severe AUD among Latino/Hispanic overall and SM populations.

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Reporting in Highly Cited Current Alcohol Research

Purpose: This study aimed to measure the frequency of high-quality and transparent sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data collection and reporting in highly cited current alcohol use research, using the extant literature to identify community-informed priorities for the measurement of these variables. Methods: A single search to identify alcohol use literature was conducted on PubMed with results restricted to primary research articles published between 2015 and 2022. The 200 most highly cited studies from each year were identified and their titles and abstracts reviewed against inclusion criteria after deduplication. After full-text review, study characteristics and data indicating quality of SOGI reporting were extracted. The fidelity of the results was verified with a random sample before analyses. Results: The final sample comprised 580 records. Few studies reported gender identity (n = 194; 33.4%) and, of these, 7.2% reported the associated gender identity measure. A two-stage approach to measure gender was adopted in 3 studies, one study used an open-ended question with a free-text response option, and 13 studies recorded nonbinary gender identities (reported by 0.9% of the whole sample). Nineteen (3.3%) studies reported sexual orientation and more than half of these provided the sexual orientation measure. Eight of the 20 studies that reported sexual orientation and/or gender identity measures were classified as sexual and gender minority specialist research. Conclusions: Culturally competent SOGI reporting is lacking in highly cited current alcohol research. SOGI measures should be disclosed in future research and should provide free-text response options.

Development and Initial Validation of Measures of Proximal Stigmas and Experiences of Discrimination for Minor Attracted People

Stigma-related stressors are central to understanding psychopathology, distress, and coping in stigmatized groups; individuals who experience attractions to children are a highly stigmatized group. Currently, few validated self-report measures exist to assess stigma-related stressors in minor attracted people (MAPs) and the current research describes the development and initial validation of two measures of internalized stigma and experiences of discrimination. A sample of MAPs (n = 289; mean age = 31.8 years, SD = 12.2) was recruited online and completed a set of self-report measures assessing stigma-related stress, negative mental health outcomes, substance use, and coping. Exploratory factor analyses of the two newly developed stigma-related stress measures were conducted and convergent associations with other constructs were examined for validity evidence. Exploratory factor analyses indicated a two-factor solution to both the measure of internalized stigma and experiences of discrimination. The total scale scores and factors scores generally demonstrated the anticipated patterns of correlations with mental health concerns, distress, coping, and substance use. Clinical intervention with MAPs may benefit from an exploration of stigma-related stressors in clients' lives to improve mental health outcomes. The relatively large sample that was recruited from multiple online forums is a strength of the current study. The use of a self-report measurement modality for all measures used in the study weakens that strength of the validation evidence presented here. These results provide initial validity evidence for the measures of stigma-related stress in MAPs and the promise of stigma processes in understanding negative outcomes in this population.

Risk factors of substance use treatment gaps among a nationally representative sample of black American adults in relation to sexual minority status and health insurance coverage

BACKGROUND

Little research has investigated predictors of specialty substance use treatment gaps among Black adults. This study examined differential odds of experiencing self-reported, past-year treatment gaps among Black adults with respect to sexual minority status and health insurance coverage, accounting for social cofactors.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study comprised 36,098 Black Americans aged 18 and older who completed the 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) and provided responses for all selected survey items. Design-based multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine predictors of drug and alcohol treatment gaps.

RESULTS

Sexual minority Black adults reported greater odds of experiencing treatment gaps to specialty treatment (i.e., inpatient hospital, inpatient/outpatient rehabilitation facility, or mental health center) compared to Black heterosexuals in adjusted models (Gay or lesbian: AOR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.39-2.89; Bisexual: AOR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.77-3.12), with bisexual Black women experiencing the greatest odds (AOR = 3.10, 95% CI = 2.33-4.14). Black adults with no health insurance were significantly more likely to report substance use treatment gaps relative to their peers with health insurance coverage (AOR = 50, 95% CI = 1.26-1.78).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest a critical need for more investigations into patterns of specialty substance use treatment gaps within Black populations and for developing sexual identity-affirming mechanisms for closing the disparity gap, particularly for Black sexual minorities and those who lack health insurance coverage.

Police Harassment and Psychiatric, Sexual, and Substance Use Risk Among Black Sexual Minority Men and Black Transgender Women in the HIV Prevention Trials 061 Cohort

BACKGROUND

Black sexual minority men and Black transgender women (BSMM/BTW) experience disproportionate levels of HIV/STI-related risk factors as well as police harassment (PH). PH is linked to psychiatric risk and could play a role in substance use, sexual risk behavior, and HIV/STI risk.

METHODS

We used data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network 061(HPTN 061) study to examine associations between PH and HIV/STI-related outcomes. Using PH exposure measured at baseline and 6-month study visits, we examined an ordinal exposure (PH reported at both visits, PH reported at either visit, versus PH reported at neither baseline nor 6 months) and a binary exposure of persistent PH reported at both visits (yes versus no). We estimate risk ratios (RR) for associations between PH and depression, use of alcohol and methamphetamine, multiple partnerships, condomless sex, and syphilis.

RESULTS

Persistent PH (binary) was associated with a 20% or greater increase in the risk of depression (RR, 1.26 (1.07, 1.47)) and multiple partnerships (RR, 1.20 (1.05, 1.39)). There was evidence that ordinal PH was associated with elevated risk of alcohol use (RR, 1.17 (1.00, 1.36)); the point estimate for the association between persistent PH and alcohol use was similar but the imprecision was greater (RR, 1.16 (0.95, 1.42)).

CONCLUSION

PH may influence not only mental health but also behavioral risks that contribute to HIV/STI among BSMM/BTW, highlighting the potential wide-ranging and downstream effects of PH on health. Further research is required to confirm associations and elucidate pathways through which PH may influence HIV/STI among BSMM/BTW.

Combined Motivational Interviewing and Ecological Momentary Intervention to Reduce Hazardous Alcohol Use Among Sexual Minority Cisgender Men and Transgender Individuals: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Sexual minority cisgender men and transgender (SMMT) individuals, particularly emerging adults (aged 18-34 years), often report hazardous drinking. Given that alcohol use increases the likelihood of HIV risk behaviors, and HIV disproportionately affects SMMT individuals, there is a need to test interventions that reduce hazardous alcohol use and subsequent HIV risk behaviors among this population. Ecological momentary interventions (EMIs), which use mobile phones to deliver risk reduction messages based on current location and behaviors, can help to address triggers that lead to drinking in real time.

OBJECTIVE

This study will test an EMI that uses motivational interviewing (MI), smartphone surveys, mobile breathalyzers, and location tracking to provide real-time messaging that addresses triggers for drinking when SMMT individuals visit locations associated with hazardous alcohol use. In addition, the intervention will deliver harm reduction messaging if individuals report engaging in alcohol use.

METHODS

We will conduct a 3-arm randomized controlled trial (N=405 HIV-negative SMMT individuals; n=135, 33% per arm) comparing the following conditions: (1) Tracking and Reducing Alcohol Consumption (a smartphone-delivered 4-session MI intervention), (2) Tracking and Reducing Alcohol Consumption and Environmental Risk (an EMI combining MI with real-time messaging based on geographic locations that are triggers to drinking), and (3) a smartphone-based alcohol monitoring-only control group. Breathalyzer results and daily self-reports will be used to assess the primary and secondary outcomes of drinking days, drinks per drinking day, binge drinking episodes, and HIV risk behaviors. Additional assessments at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months will evaluate exploratory long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

The study is part of a 5-year research project funded in August 2022 by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The first 1.5 years of the study will be dedicated to planning and development activities, including formative research, app design and testing, and message design and testing. The subsequent 3.5 years will see the study complete participant recruitment, data collection, analyses, report writing, and dissemination. We expect to complete all study data collection in or before January 2027.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide novel evidence about the relative efficacy of using a smartphone-delivered MI intervention and real-time messaging to address triggers for hazardous alcohol use and sexual risk behaviors. The EMI approach, which incorporates location-based preventive messaging and behavior surveys, may help to better understand the complexity of daily stressors among SMMT individuals and their impact on hazardous alcohol use and HIV risk behaviors. The tailoring of this intervention toward SMMT individuals helps to address their underrepresentation in existing alcohol use research and will be promising for informing where structural alcohol use prevention and treatment interventions are needed to support SMMT individuals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05576350; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05576350.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/55166.

On the Relationship Between Online Heterosexist Discrimination and Mental Health and Substance Use Among LGBTQ+ Young Adults

LGBTQ+ individuals experience disproportionately higher rates of mental health and substance use difficulties. Discrimination is a significant factor in explaining these disparities. Meyer's (2003) minority stress theory (MST) indicates that proximal group-specific processes mediate the relationship between discrimination and health outcomes, with the effects moderated by other social factors. However, online discrimination has been understudied among LGBTQ+  people. Focusing on LGBTQ+  young adults experiencing online heterosexist discrimination (OHD), the current study aimed to investigate the effect of OHD on mental health outcomes and explore whether the effect was mediated by proximal factors of internalized heterosexism, online concealment, and acceptance concerns and moderated by social support. Path analysis was used to examine the effects. A total of 383 LGBTQ+  young adults (18-35) from an introductory psychology subject pool, two online crowdsourcing platforms, and the community completed a questionnaire assessing these constructs. OHD was associated with increased psychological distress and cannabis use. Two proximal stressors (acceptance concerns and sexual orientation concealment) mediated the relationship between OHD and psychological distress. Sexual orientation concealment also mediated the relationship between OHD and cannabis use. There was no evidence that online social support from LGBTQ+ peers moderated any of the relationships. MST is a viable guiding framework for exploring OHD. Acceptance concerns and online concealment are important constructs to consider and may be potential treatment targets for individuals experiencing psychological distress or engaging in cannabis use due to OHD.

Experiences of and recommendations for LGBTQ+-affirming substance use services: an exploratory qualitative descriptive study with LGBTQ+ people who use opioids and other drugs

BACKGROUND

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other LGBTQ populations (LGBTQ+; e.g., asexual individuals) have higher rates of substance use (SU) and disorders (SUD) compared to heterosexual and cisgender populations. Such disparities can be attributed to minority stress, including stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings. LGBTQ+-affirming SU treatment and related services remain limited. The purpose of this exploratory qualitative descriptive study was to characterize LGBTQ+ people's experiences in SU services and recommendations for LGBTQ+- affirming care.

METHODS

We conducted demographic surveys (characterized using descriptive statistics) and individual qualitative interviews with N = 23 LGBTQ+ people. We employed flexible coding and a thematic analysis approach to describe participants' experiences with stigma, discrimination, and support within SU services at the patient-, staff-, and organizational-level; and participant recommendations for how to make such services LGBTQ+-affirming. We highlighted components of minority stress and mitigators of adverse stress responses throughout our thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Patient-level experiences included bullying, name-calling, sexual harassment, and physical distancing from peers; and support via community-building with LGBTQ+ peers. Staff-level experiences included name-calling, denial of services, misgendering, lack of intervention in peer bullying, and assumptions about participants' sexuality; and support via staff advocacy for LGBTQ+ patients, holistic treatment models, and openly LGBTQ+ staff. Organizational-level experiences included stigma in binary gendered program structures; and support from programs with gender-affirming groups and housing, and in visual cues (e.g., rainbow flags) of affirming care. Stigma and discrimination led to minority stress processes like identity concealment and stress coping responses like SU relapse; support facilitated SU treatment engagement and retention. Recommendations for LGBTQ+-affirming care included non-discrimination policies, LGBTQ+-specific programming, hiring LGBTQ+ staff, routine staff sensitivity training, and gender-inclusive program structures.

CONCLUSIONS

LGBTQ+ people experience stigma and discrimination within SU services; supportive and affirming care is vital to reducing treatment barriers and promoting positive health outcomes. The current study offers concrete recommendations for how to deliver LGBTQ+-affirming care, which could reduce SU disparities and drug overdose mortality overall.

Older, self-identifying gay men's conceptualisations of psychological well-being (PWB): A Canadian perspective

Many older gay men experience diminished psychological well-being (PWB) due to unique circumstances including discrimination, living with HIV, and aging through the HIV/AIDS crisis. However, there remains ambiguity as to how older gay men define and understand PWB. Our team interviewed and analyzed the accounts of 26 older (50+) self-identifying English-speaking men living in southwestern British Columbia, Canada. We drew on tenets of constructivist grounded theory and intersectionality to account for unique contextual considerations and power relations. Semi-structured Zoom interviews were conducted from August-October 2022. Interview transcripts were compared to generate high-order conceptual findings underpinned by processes understood as central to PWB. Three PWB temporal processes highlighted interlocking social and contextual circumstances intersecting with power and maturation: (1) being emotionally balanced, (2) living gratitude (3) and fully embracing self-acceptance. Being emotionally balanced supported the affective and sustainable state of contentment, living gratitude drew from the wisdom of accrued experiences to cultivate a positive affective state inclusive to recognising social location privileges, whilst fully embracing self-acceptance redressed the harms of anti-gay discourses that men endured throughout their lives. The knowledge is relevant to service and resource development to deliver tailored PWB supports to older gay men.

Co-occurring mental health and drug use experiences among Black and Hispanic/Latino sexual and gender diverse individuals

Black and Hispanic/Latino sexual and gender diverse individuals disproportionately experience overlapping health disparities, such as drug use and elevated depressive symptoms, which are often driven by minority stressors. We sought to better understand the interaction between drug use and mental health, as it may be fruitful in developing effective interventions to address co-occurring health disparities. In a longitudinal, 5-wave sample of 300 Black and Hispanic/Latino sexual and gender diverse (SGD) individuals collected between March 2020 and March 2022, we found a within-person association between greater than average levels of psychological distress (depression and anxiety) and more frequent extra-medical use of cannabis, inhalants, methamphetamines, and opioids over the span of two years. These associations held after adjusting for the direct, within-person association of internalized homonegativity with drug use frequency. These results suggest that psychological distress explains at least some variance in drug use among Black and Hispanic/Latino SGD individuals. This highlights the importance of interventions that focus on mental health among Black and Hispanic/Latino SGD individuals who report drug use.

Hidradenitis suppurativa in sexual and gender minorities: A review and considerations for providers

The literature on hidradenitis suppurativa in sexual and gender minorities remains sparse. This review article aims to discuss critical factors for providers to consider in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual patients with hidradenitis suppurativa, including associated comorbidities, gender-affirming hormonal therapy, squamous cell carcinoma, infections in HIV-positive patients, and creating a welcoming clinic for sexual and gender minority patients.

Experiences of and recommendations for LGBTQ+-affirming substance use services: A qualitative study with LGBTQ+ people who use opioids and other drugs

Background

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other LGBTQ populations (LGBTQ+; e.g., non-binary individuals) have higher rates of substance use (SU) and disorders (SUD) compared to heterosexual and cisgender populations. Such disparities can be attributed to minority stress, including stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings. LGBTQ+-affirming SU treatment and related services remain limited. The purpose of this qualitative study was to characterize LGBTQ + people's experiences in SU services and recommendations for LGBTQ+-affirming care.

Methods

We conducted demographic surveys (characterized using descriptive statistics) and individual qualitative interviews with N = 23 LGBTQ + people. We employed a flexible coding approach to describe participants' experiences with stigma, discrimination, and support within SU services; and participant recommendations for how to make such services LGBTQ+-affirming at the patient-, staff-, and organizational-level. We highlighted components of minority stress and mitigators of adverse stress responses throughout our thematic analysis.

Results

Patient-level experiences included bullying, name-calling, sexual harassment, and physical distancing from peers; and support via community-building with LGBTQ + peers. Staff-level experiences included name-calling, denial of services, misgendering, lack of intervention in peer bullying, and assumptions about participants' sexuality; and support via staff advocacy for LGBTQ + patients, holistic treatment models, and openly LGBTQ + staff. Organizational-level experiences included stigma in binary gendered program structures; and support from programs with gender-affirming groups and housing, and in visual cues (e.g., rainbow flags) of affirming care. Stigma and discrimination led to minority stress processes like identity concealment and stress coping responses like SU relapse; support facilitated SU treatment engagement and retention. Recommendations for LGBTQ+-affirming care included non-discrimination policies, routine pronoun sharing, LGBTQ+-specific programming, hiring LGBTQ + staff, routine staff sensitivity training, and gender-inclusive program structures.

Conclusions

LGBTQ + people experience stigma and discrimination within SU services; supportive and affirming care is vital to reducing treatment barriers and promoting positive health outcomes. The current study offers concrete recommendations for how to deliver LGBTQ+-affirming care, which could reduce SU disparities and drug overdose mortality overall.

"I don't just say, Hi! I'm gay": Sexual Orientation Disclosures in Oncology Clinic Settings Among Sexual Minority Women Treated for Breast Cancer in the U.S. South

OBJECTIVES

Few studies examine sexual orientation disclosures (SODs) among women with breast cancer; fewer examine the impact of culture and geography on disclosure processes. This study explores how sexual minority women (SMW) in the Southern United States engage in SODs with oncology clinicians.

DATA SOURCES

We conducted in-depth interviews with SMW (eg, lesbian, bisexual) treated for early-stage (stages I-III), hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (N = 12), using a semistructured interview guide. Participants completed an online survey prior to the 60-minute interview. Data was analyzed using an adapted pile sorting approach and thematic analysis conventions.

CONCLUSION

Average age of participants was 49.5 years (range: 30-69), all self-identified as cisgender; 83.3% as lesbian, 58.3% were married, 91.7% had completed a 4-year college degree or higher, 66.7% identified as non-Hispanic White, 16.7% as Black, and 16.7% as Hispanic/Latina. Half of the sample had not engaged in SODs with an oncology clinician. Key themes were: (1) religious and political conservatism in the South create SOD barriers; (2) oncologist-specific barriers to SODs; (3) "straight passing" as a discrimination mitigation strategy; and (4) SOD facilitators in oncology settings (ie, strategic disclosures, medical privilege, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender-friendly branding of oncology centers).

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

SMW with breast cancer living in the U.S. South navigate unique interpersonal barriers to SODs in oncology settings. Clinicians could encourage SODs by fostering inclusive environments via nonheteronormative language, inclusive intake forms, and respect for SMW's SOD navigation processes. Oncology clinicians require culturally relevant, geographic-specific communication training to facilitate SODs among SMW.

Interventions to Reduce Alcohol Use and HIV Risk among Sexual and Gender Minority Populations: a Systematic Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals are diagnosed with HIV at disproportionate rates, and hazardous alcohol use can increase their HIV risk. This review assessed the state of the literature examining interventions for addressing alcohol use and sexual HIV risk behaviors among SGM individuals.

RECENT FINDINGS

Fourteen manuscripts from 2012 to 2022 tested interventions that address both alcohol use and HIV risk behaviors among SGM populations, with only 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Virtually all the interventions targeted men who have sex with men, with none focused on transgender populations or cisgender women. While they demonstrated some evidence of effectiveness in reducing alcohol use and/or sexual risk, the outcomes varied widely between studies. More research is needed that tests interventions in this area, particularly for transgender individuals. The use of larger-scale RCTs with diverse populations and standardized outcome measures are needed to strengthen the evidence base.

The Conditional Effects of Savoring on the Relationship between Minority Stress and Alcohol Misuse in an LGBTQIA + Sample

Background: Alcohol-related difficulties are a significant public health concern in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, and people with other sexual orientations and forms of gender identity (LGBTQIA+) communities. Considering these concerns, there is a strong push to develop affirming and strength-based prevention efforts. Unfortunately, such efforts are undermined by the lack of protective LGBTQIA + models for alcohol misuse. To this end, the purpose of the current study was to evaluate whether savoring, the ability to create, maintain, and prolong positive emotions, meets basic criteria for a protective factor for alcohol misuse in a sample of LGBTQIA + adults. Methods: The sample was comprised of 226 LGBTQIA + adults who completed an online survey. Results: Results indicated that savoring was inversely related to alcohol misuse. In addition, the relationship between minority stress and alcohol misuse varied as a function of savoring; at high levels of savoring (a score of 136.63 on the Savoring Beliefs Inventory), the relationship between minority stress and alcohol misuse was non-significant. Conclusions: In combination, these findings offer preliminary support for savoring as a protective factor for alcohol misuse among different LGBTQIA + communities. However, longitudinal and experimental research is needed to solidify the role of savoring in minimizing alcohol-related problems in this population.

E-Cigarette Use among Sexual Minoritized Women and Nonbinary People Assigned Female at Birth: Assessing the Roles of Discrimination, Perceived Stress, and Social Support

Background: Young adult sexual minoritized women (SMW) are at disproportionate risk for e-cigarette use, which may in part be due to excess minority stress imposed by discrimination exposure. While discrimination exposure is associated with risk for combustible tobacco/nicotine use among SMW, similar associations have yet to be tested with e-cigarettes. Moreover, it is unknown if discrimination-related risk may be mitigated by protective factors such as social support. This study examined concurrent associations of discrimination, perceived stress, and social support with past 30-day e-cigarette use in a sample of young adult SMW during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: N = 501 SMW and nonbinary people assigned female at birth (AFAB) aged 18-30 completed an online survey. A series of logistic regressions examined associations of discrimination, perceived stress, and four forms of social support received during the COVID-19 pandemic with past-30-day e-cigarette use. Results: Among SMW, greater perceived stress (OR = 1.10, p = .03), but not discrimination exposure, was associated with e-cigarette use. Associations of discrimination with e-cigarette use were nonsignificant when most forms of social support (emotional, material/financial, and virtual) were accounted for. Associations of perceived stress with e-cigarette use were strongest among those who needed but did not receive material support. Conclusions: Perceived stress, but not discrimination exposure, was associated with risk for e-cigarette use among young SMW during the COVID-19 pandemic. Effects of nonspecific stress may be compounded by insufficient material/financial support.

A Scoping Review on the Role of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Microaggressions in Substance Use

Objectives

Disparities in substance use patterns and outcomes are evident among sexual and gender minority groups. Sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) microaggression, or the subtle forms of aggression experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender non-conforming/non-binary, and gender diverse individuals, has recently been explored as a mechanism that leads to negative adjustment outcomes, including substance use. In this study we examined extant literature on the association between SOGI microaggression and substance use, and the intermediary factors that mediate or moderate this relationship.

Method

Scoping review method was used to systematically map the literature base using database aggregators (e.g., Scopus, EBSCO) following the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines.

Results

We found that SOGI microaggression is positively associated with substance use and negative consequences, and this relationship is mediated or moderated by motivational, relational, and identity processes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the need to consider microaggression experience when working with clients of diverse sexual and gender identities. Likewise, additional studies are needed on other intermediary factors and effects of microaggression on substances other than alcohol. Most importantly, this study underscores the need for understanding the link between microaggression and substance use in greater efforts to promote sexual well-being and building competence in fostering the trifecta of sexual health, sexual rights, and sexual pleasure.

Intersectional forms of racism and sexual minority stress are associated with alcohol use among Latinx sexual minority men with greater Hispanic/Latinx cultural orientation

Background: Latinx sexual minorities with increased levels of acculturation report higher rates of alcohol use, and discrimination may impact this association. Yet, there is little research examining the concomitant impact of racism and sexual minority stress (i.e. intersectional discrimination) and the additive effect of acculturation on Latinx sexual minority men's risk for hazardous alcohol consumption.Objectives: This study investigated the role of perceived stressfulness of intersectional discrimination in the relation between acculturation (US cultural orientation/Hispanic cultural orientation) and alcohol use among Latinx sexual minority men.Methods: A structural equation model was utilized to test the indirect effect of discrimination between acculturation and alcohol use with a sample of 357 Latinx sexual minority men (M_age = 28.39) recruited via Amazon MTurk.Results: The indirect effect between the Hispanic cultural orientation to alcohol use through intersectional forms of discrimination was significant and positive (b = .19, SE = .03, p < .01). The indirect effect for the US cultural orientation to alcohol use through intersectional forms of discrimination was significant and negative (b = -.10, SE = .03, p < .01).Conclusion: Contrary to previous literature, Latinx sexual minority men with a higher Hispanic cultural orientation reported higher levels of intersectional forms of discrimination, which in turn was associated with increased alcohol use. Those with a higher US cultural orientation reported lower levels of intersectional forms of discrimination, which in turn was associated with decreased alcohol use. These findings may help identify mechanisms that exacerbate health disparities for Latinx sexual minority men.

Sexual Orientation Disparities in Depression and Substance Use Among Adults: Results from the Brazilian National Health Survey 2019

Purpose: We compared the prevalence of depression, hazardous alcohol use, daily tobacco use and hazardous alcohol and tobacco use (HATU) by sexual orientation and sex among Brazilian adults. Methods: Data were obtained from a national health survey conducted in 2019. This study included participants aged 18 years and older (N = 85,859). Adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) and confidence intervals were estimated using Poisson regression models stratified by sex to examine the association between sexual orientation, depression, daily tobacco use, hazardous alcohol use, and HATU. Results: After controlling for the covariates, gay men showed a higher prevalence of depression, daily tobacco use, and HATU compared with heterosexual men (APR ranged from 1.71 to 1.92). Furthermore, bisexual men showed a higher prevalence (almost three times) of depression compared with heterosexual men. Lesbian women showed a higher prevalence of binge and heavy drinking, daily tobacco use, and HATU compared with heterosexual women (APR ranged from 2.55 to 4.44). Among bisexual women, the results were significant for all analyzed outcomes (APR ranged from 1.83 to 3.26). Conclusions: This study was the first to use a nationally representative survey to assess sexual orientation disparities related to depression and substance use by sex in Brazil. Our findings highlight the need for specific public policies aimed at the sexual minority population and for greater recognition and better management of these disorders by health professionals.

Community Connectedness as a Moderator of the Association between Intersectional Microaggressions and Alcohol Use among Sexual and Gender Minoritized People of Color

Background: Researchers have documented associations between discrete conceptualizations of microaggressions (e.g., sexual identity, gender identity, and racial identity microaggressions) and alcohol use among sexual and gender minoritized people of color (SGM-POC). However, little is known about the association between intersectional microaggressions and alcohol use among SGM-POC. Moreover, protective factors such as community connectedness have been examined via similar discrete conceptualizations instead of examining SGM-POC community connectedness with other SGM-POC individuals. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the association between intersectional microaggressions and alcohol use among SGM-POC and test whether different types of community connectedness moderated this association. Methods: Cross-sectional data were collected from a sample of 267 SGM-POC individuals. Four moderation analyses were done to analyze whether different types of community connectedness (sexual identity, racial identity, gender identity, and SGM-POC identity community connectedness) were moderators of the association of intersectional microaggressions and alcohol use. Results: Intersectional microaggressions were significantly positively correlated with alcohol use. Furthermore, SGM-POC community connectedness moderated this association such that the association was stronger for individuals with higher levels of SGM-POC community connectedness, but not lower levels of SGM-POC community connectedness. Conclusions: These findings showcase the importance of assessing for intersectional microaggressions as a risk factor for alcohol use. Similarly, the findings suggest that SGM-POC community connectedness may be a protective factor against alcohol use for SGM-POC.

Factors Associated with Disclosure of Sexual Orientation Among Black Sexual Minority Men

Purpose: This study evaluated the characteristics associated with sexual orientation disclosure among HIV-negative Black sexual minority men (BSMM) in the greater Atlanta, Georgia area. Survey data were collected from 475 HIV-negative BSMM from 2017 to 2019 as part of a larger behavioral intervention study focused on stigma, prejudice, and HIV-testing uptake. Methods: Participants reported their levels of sexual orientation disclosure globally, to their community, and to their family. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and multinomial logistic regression to determine whether demographic, minority stress, substance use, and mental health were associated with sexual orientation disclosure globally, to community members, and to family members. Results: Findings revealed that participants with older age, bisexual identity, and higher levels of internalized homophobia had higher odds of global, community, and family sexual orientation nondisclosure. Furthermore, participants with higher levels of resilience had lower odds of partial sexual orientation disclosure compared with their fully disclosed counterparts. Conclusions: These findings reveal variations associated with sexual orientation disclosure across varying contexts among HIV-negative BSMM, particularly among family member disclosure.

The State of the Research on Opioid Outcomes Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Other Sexuality- and Gender-Diverse Populations: A Scoping Review

Purpose: Research on opioid misuse, opioid use disorder (OUD), and overdose (i.e., opioid outcomes) among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other populations within the LGBTQ umbrella (LGBTQ+) remains sparse. The purpose of this scoping review was to characterize the state of the research on opioid outcomes among LGBTQ+ populations, and identify gaps in the extant literature and areas for future research. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed, English language articles published between 2011 and 2020 that examined opioid outcomes among LGBTQ+ populations in the CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, and PsycINFO databases. We extracted data from articles that focused on opioid outcomes within their specific aims or purpose. We include a general summary for articles that secondarily described opioid outcomes among LGBTQ+ populations. Results: Of 113 published studies that examined opioid outcomes among LGBTQ+ populations, 10% (n = 11) were specifically designed to focus on this topic. Across studies, bisexual populations, particularly women, were at highest risk for opioid misuse and OUD. Few studies examined opioid outcomes by more than one dimension of sexual orientation (n = 3, 27%), race and/or ethnicity (n = 3, 27%), or age (n = 5, 45%). Only two included transgender or gender diverse samples; only one explicitly measured gender identity. Conclusions: Future research is needed to understand the impact of the opioid epidemic on LGBTQ+ people, particularly transgender and other gender diverse individuals, and the intersectional role of race, ethnicity, and age in opioid disparities among LGBTQ+ individuals. Additional research could contribute to the development of much-needed affirming OUD treatment and other services for LGBTQ+ people.

Discrimination, psychological functioning, and substance use among U.S. young adults aged 18-28, 2017

This study aimed to test whether (a) discrimination is associated with past 30-day/current alcohol, cigarette, e-cigarette, alcohol, marijuana, and other illicit drug use among Black and White U.S. adults aged 18-28, (b) psychological distress (PD) and positive well-being (PW) are mediators of the discrimination-substance use relationships, and (c) the associations are moderated by race and sex. Using data from a 2017 U.S. nationally representative survey we conducted multiple-group moderated mediation analyses among 2,192 young adults aged 18-28 (508 Black males, 594 Black females, 533 White males, 557 White females). Black males had higher discrimination, Whites had higher PW, and females had higher PD scores. Discrimination was positively associated with PD and negatively associated with PW. Among all groups, discrimination was positively associated with other illicit drug (direct and indirect), and marijuana use through PD. Indirect effects were stronger among White males for other illicit drugs and Black males for marijuana. The indirect effect of discrimination and alcohol use through PW was positive for Black females and negative for all other groups examined. Among Black males only, discrimination was positively associated with cigarette and alcohol use through PD (positive) and cigarette smoking through PW (negative). This study highlights the negative influence of perceived discrimination on current licit and illicit substance use among Black and White young adults. Our results suggest that this relationship may be partially mediated by PD and PW, especially among Black male young adults. Future discrimination and substance use studies should consider potential mediation effects of poor mental health and differences by race and sex. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Psychosocial and Culturally-Specific Factors Related to Intimate Partner Violence Victimization among a Sample of Latino Sexual Minority Cis Men in the U.S

A growing body of research illustrates that sexual minority men (SMM) experience elevated rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) compared to heterosexual individuals. Researchers have examined the relationship between minority stress and IPV victimization among sexual minority men. A majority of the IPV research identifying risk factors associated with IPV victimization among SMM have sampled predominately non-Hispanic White SMM, while Latino SMM are consistently under-represented in IPV research. This study examines the associations between (1) co-occurring psychosocial factors (e.g., depression, anxiety, childhood sexual abuse, drug use, and problematic drinking) and (2) Latino-specific minority stress factors (e.g., U.S.-born, language, race/ethnic identities, and discrimination) on IPV victimization in a nationwide sample of Latino SMM. Data were collected from Latino SMM aged 18 or older, identified as cis-male, and in a romantic relationship with a cis-male partner (N = 530). The participants were recruited through social media and geo-location-based dating mobile applications. A majority (72%) of the sample reported IPV victimization in their lifetime. Specific to forms of IPV, more than half (51.9%) of the sample reported monitoring behaviors, while 49.6% reported emotional IPV, 45.1% reported physical IPV, 31.5% reported controlling behaviors, and 22.3% reported HIV-related IPV. In multivariable models, psychosocial and Latino-specific factors were associated with the increased likelihood of IPV victimization. Regarding Latino-specific factors, being born in the U.S. and race-based discrimination predicted IPV victimization. These findings highlight the extent to which minority stress elevates the risk of IPV for Latino SMM and point to the need to address social factors in IPV prevention services. Further, work on SMM IPV victimization tends to focus on the potential role of sexual orientation-related discrimination, whereas the current study points to the importance of race-based discrimination.

Systems of Care Implications in Hawai'i: Sexual and Gender Minorities

Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) are diverse groups of people who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender. SGM communities include Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) individuals as well as people of other sexual orientations and gender identities. SGM communities are disproportionately affected by substance use disorders, with differential use of specific substances among persons based on sexual or gender identity. As understood through the minority stress model, substance use and misuse among SGM people are tied to risk and resiliency factors at all levels of the social ecological paradigm. Despite the disproportionate burden of substance use disorders on SGM people in Hawai'i, very few resources or programs exist to ameliorate the impact of substance use on this community. Although some models of care could be useful for SGM people, community-specific interventions are scarce, especially in Hawai'i. To successfully meet the needs of SGM people in Hawai'i, multi-level transformation of the substance use prevention and treatment landscape must address: culturally appropriate service delivery; workforce recruitment and development; nimble and adequate financing; consistent data collection and reporting; and systems-level policy updates.

At-School Victimization and Alcohol Use Among Minoritized U.S. Youth, 2009-2017

INTRODUCTION

Sexual minority and/or racial/ethnic minority youth may use alcohol at school as a form of minority stress-based coping. Polyvictimization is particularly prevalent among sexual minority and/or racial/ethnic minority youth and may be a useful proxy measure for minority stressors.

METHODS

Data from local administrations of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey were pooled across 42 jurisdiction years (biennially, 2009-2017) and analyzed in 2022, resulting in a sample of 118,052 U.S. youth. The prevalence of alcohol use at school was examined by sexual identity, race/ethnicity, and their intersections, stratified by sex. Multivariable logistic regression models were built to examine the disparities in alcohol use at school and the impact of school-based polyvictimization.

RESULTS

At the intersections of race/ethnicity and sexual identity, 25 of 30 sexual minority and/or racial/ethnic minority subpopulations had greater odds of alcohol use at school than their White heterosexual same-sex peers. Hispanic/Latinx not-sure males (AOR=9.15; 95% CI=5.97, 14.03) and Hispanic/Latinx lesbian females (AOR=11.24; 95% CI=6.40, 19.77) were most likely to report alcohol use at school. After adjusting for polyvictimization, the magnitude of association was attenuated for most sexual minority and/or racial/ethnic minority subpopulations; however, all but 2 significant associations remained.

CONCLUSIONS

Sexual minority and/or racial/ethnic minority youth were more likely than White heterosexual peers to use alcohol at school, with the greatest odds among multiply marginalized and polyvictimized youth. Interventions should consider addressing more than school-based victimization alone because disparities persisted, although at a lower magnitude, after accounting for polyvictimization. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to further explore the associations between multiply marginalized identities, school-based polyvictimization, and alcohol use at school.

Exposure to interpersonal stigma enhances the effectiveness of a culturally adapted personalized normative feedback alcohol intervention for sexual minority women

Stigma-related stress and inflated perceptions of substance use norms are positioned in the literature as theoretically distinct explanations for disproportionate substance use among sexual minorities. As research has yet to examine how these variables may interact in an intervention context, this study examined the impact of recent experiences with violence and harassment due to sexual minority status (i.e., interpersonal stigma exposure) on the effectiveness of a culturally adapted personalized normative feedback intervention for lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) women. A sub-sample of 499 moderate-to-heavy drinking LBQ women were randomized to receive personalized normative feedback (PNF) on alcohol use or control topics within a broader digital competition designed to challenge negative LBQ stereotypes. At baseline, recent interpersonal stigma exposure strengthened the relationship between perceived LBQ alcohol-related norms and participants' own alcohol-related behaviors (i.e., consumption and consequences). At follow-up, 3 months later, recent interpersonal stigma exposure moderated the effectiveness of alcohol PNF with substantially less drinking and consequences among participants in the treatment condition reporting recent violence or harassment due to sexual minority status, relative to those reporting no such experiences. Underscoring the utility of PNF for LBQ women and potentially other heavy drinking stigmatized populations, findings suggest that a greater tendency to conform to over-estimated ingroup drinking norms may be another way in which minority status-based violence and harassment contributes to alcohol consumption in stigmatized populations.

The perceived social rejection of sexual minorities: Substance use and unprotected sexual intercourse

INTRODUCTION

This study presents associations between the perceived social rejection of sexual minorities and tobacco, alcohol and cannabis consumption and unprotected sexual intercourse in the capital of Greece, Athens. This is the first Greek study to evaluate the concept of the minority stress theory on sexual minorities' substance use and unprotected sexual intercourse. In addition, this is among the first international studies to examine whether periods of adverse economic conditions are associated with sexual minorities' substance use and unprotected sexual intercourse.

METHODS

Two-panel datasets covering the periods 2013-2014 and 2018-2019 were used to determine the perceived social rejection, that is, whether sexual minorities have been rejected by friends, treated unfairly in educational and/or workplace environments, treated negatively in social situations and received poor health and public services due to their sexuality.

RESULTS

The estimates indicate that perceived social rejection is associated with the increased consumption of tobacco (by 9.1%, P < 0.01), alcohol (by 7.1%, P < 0.01) and cannabis (by 12.5%, P < 0.01), as well as unprotected sexual intercourse (by 6.5%, P < 0.01). In the first three cases, the magnitude of the associations is stronger for men than women and there is increased cannabis consumption during periods of deteriorated economic conditions (by 5.5%, P < 0.01).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

In the European Union, reducing stigma, substance use, risky sexual behaviours and health inequalities for sexual minorities is a goal of public health. If minority stress is correlated with substance use and risky sexual behaviours leading to detrimental physical/mental health outcomes then prevention and support interventions should be designed.

Simulating the experience of searching for LGBTQ-specific opioid use disorder treatment in the United States

INTRODUCTION

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) populations experience opioid-related disparities compared to heterosexual and cisgender populations. LGBTQ-specific services are needed within opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment settings to minimize treatment barriers; research on the availability and accessibility of such services is limited. The purpose of the current study was to mimic the experience of an LGBTQ-identified individual searching for LGBTQ-specific OUD treatment services, using the SAMHSA National Directory of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facilities - 2018 (Treatment Directory).

METHODS

We contacted treatment facilities listed in the Treatment Directory as providing both medications for OUD (MOUD) and "special programs/groups" for LGBTQ clients within states with the top 20 highest national opioid overdose rates. We used descriptive statistics to characterize the outcome of calls; and the overall number of facilities offering LGBTQ-specific services, MOUD, and both LGBTQ-specific services and MOUD in each state by 100,000 state population and in relation to opioid overdose mortality rates (programs-per-death rate).

RESULTS

Of the N = 570 treatment facilities contacted, n = 446 (78.25 %) were reached and answered our questions. Of n = 446 reached (all of which advertised both MOUD and LGBTQ-specific services), n = 366 (82.06 %) reported offering MOUD, n = 125 (28.03 %) reported offering special programs or groups for LGBTQ clients, and n = 107 (23.99 %) reported offering both MOUD and LGBTQ-specific services. Apart from Washington, DC, New Mexico, South Carolina, and West Virginia, which did not have any facilities that reported offering both MOUD and LGBTQ-specific services, Illinois had the lowest, and Michigan had the highest programs-per-death rate. Most of the northeastern states on our list (all but New Hampshire) clustered in the top two quarters of programs-per-death rates, while most of southeastern states (all but North Carolina) clustered in the bottom two quarters of programs-per-death rates.

CONCLUSIONS

The lack of LGBTQ-specific OUD treatment services may lead to missed opportunities for supporting LGBTQ people most in need of treatment; such treatment is especially crucial to prevent overdose mortality and improve the health of LGBTQ populations across the United States, particularly in the southeast.

Everyday Discrimination and Alcohol use among Sexual Minority Adults in a U.S. National Probability Sample

Objective: Limited research assesses how sexual orientation and gender identity and expression (SOGIE)-based discrimination affects alcohol use above and beyond non-SOGIE-related discrimination and how this may differ for sexual minority subgroups. We examined if SOGIE-related discrimination is additive in affecting alcohol use above and beyond non-SOGIE-related discrimination and examined differences in alcohol use, everyday discrimination, and the attribution of discrimination by sex and sexual identity. Methods: A national probability sample of sexual minority adults in the United States was used (N = 1311, female = 56.4%). Bivariate sexual identity and sex-based differences in drinking frequency, heavy episodic drinking (HED), everyday discrimination, and the attribution of discrimination were assessed. Sexual identity and sex-stratified logistic regression models were estimated, where everyday discrimination and the attribution of discrimination predicted drinking frequency and HED. Results: Several differences by sex assigned at birth and sexual identity in drinking frequency, HED, everyday discrimination, and the attribution of discrimination were found in bivariate analyses. In logistic regression models, experiencing SOGIE-related in addition to other types of discrimination was associated with higher odds of HED only for gay males. No other associations were found for everyday discrimination or the attribution of discrimination with drinking frequency or HED. Conclusions: Findings suggest sex and sexual identity-based differences in everyday discrimination and the attribution of discrimination.

Disparities in alcohol use and heavy episodic drinking among bisexual people: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression

BACKGROUND

Alcohol consumption is more prevalent among sexual minorities than among heterosexuals; however, differences between minority sexual orientation groups are understudied. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize existing evidence on the prevalence of alcohol use among bisexual people compared to their lesbian/gay and heterosexual counterparts.

METHODS

A systematic review of literature from 1995 to May 2020 was performed using Medline, PsycInfo, and Embase (OVID), Scopus, CINHAL and LGBT Life (EBSCO), combining keywords for bisexuality and alcohol use. Peer-reviewed publications that reported quantitative data on alcohol use among bisexual people were included. A random-effects model was used to pool the prevalence of two outcomes: any alcohol use and heavy episodic drinking (HED). Subgroup analysis and random-effects meta-regression were used to explore heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Of 105 studies eligible for data extraction, the overall prevalence of alcohol use was higher among bisexuals compared to lesbian/gay and heterosexual people. For example, the prevalence of past-month HED was 30.0% (28.2, 31.8) among bisexual people versus 25.5% (23.8, 27.2) among lesbian/gay and 21.3% (19.6, 23.0) among heterosexual individuals. Pooled odds ratio estimates showed that bisexual people were more likely to report alcohol use and HED compared to their counterparts. Gender was a significant effect modifier in meta-regression analysis, with greater disparities among women than among men.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the need for additional research to understand factors underlying bisexual people's greater risk, and particularly bisexual women, as well as alcohol use interventions that are targeted towards the specific needs of bisexual people.

Discrimination, Substance Use, and Mental Health among Sexual and Gender Minority Adults Accessing Day Shelter Services

BACKGROUND

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults are overrepresented in the population of individuals experiencing homelessness, and high rates of substance use are common in this group. Plausibly, poor mental health and discrimination may contribute to substance use among SGM adults experiencing homelessness. This study described participant characteristics, and the interrelations among sociodemographic variables, substance use, mental health, and discrimination experiences among 87 SGM adults seeking services at a day shelter in Oklahoma City, OK. Discrimination experiences were characterized by race (White vs. non-White), sex (female vs. male), sexual identity (heterosexual vs. sexual minority), and gender identity (gender conforming vs. gender minority).

METHODS

Participants reported their past 30-day tobacco (cigarette/cigarillos, alternative tobacco products [ATP]), alcohol, and marijuana use, as well as everyday and lifetime major discrimination experiences, substance use problems, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Independent samples t-tests examined differences in discrimination based on substance use and mental health.

RESULTS

Participants had high rates of tobacco and marijuana use, substance use problems, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Over 80% reported experiencing everyday or lifetime major discrimination. Depression and PTSD were associated with ATP use, and anxiety was associated with alcohol use. All mental health variables were associated with substance use problems and everyday discrimination. Depression was associated with lifetime major discrimination.

CONCLUSIONS

SGM adults accessing shelter services frequently experienced discrimination and poor mental health, and substance use was common. Future research should examine the causal impact of discrimination on mental health and substance use among SGM adults experiencing homelessness.

Discrimination experiences, resilience, and cardiovascular disease risk factors among sexual minority women

Resilience, or the process of adapting to adversity, may protect against the harmful effects of minority-related stressors on the cardiovascular health of sexual minority women (SMW). An online survey was conducted in a sample of cisgender, non-heterosexual women to evaluate resilience as a moderator of the association between discrimination experiences and key cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors: stress, tobacco-smoking, hazardous alcohol consumption, poor diet quality, physical inactivity, and sedentary behaviors. Overall, 191 women (mean age = 29.34, SD = 6.92; 84.5% White) completed the survey and met eligibility to be included in the data analysis. White race (b = - 6.71, SE = 2.49) and education (b = - 3.36, SE = 0.56) were each independently associated with fewer discrimination experiences. Latinx ethnicity was associated with more discrimination experiences (b = 9.34, SE = 2.61). Education was associated with greater resilience (b = 4.57, SE = 0.83). Multivariable regression models were adjusted for race, ethnicity, and education. Discrimination was associated with a higher likelihood of smoking in the past month (b = 0.04, SE = 0.02) and drinking at hazardous levels (b = 0.09, SE = 0.02). Resilience was associated with less stress (b =  - 0.15, SE = 0.02), a lower likelihood of hazardous alcohol consumption (b =  - 0.02, SE = 0.01) and less time spent engaging in sedentary behaviors (b =  - 0.02, SE = 0.01). One moderation emerged, such that discrimination was negatively associated with stress for those low in resilience (b =  - 1.75, SE = 0.58), and not associated with stress for those high in resilience. These findings may inform the development of CVD-risk reduction interventions for SMW, which could include both strategies to mitigate the effects of discrimination on substance use and coping skills to promote resilience.

The impact of discrimination on substance use disorders among sexual minorities

This paper aimed to review the literature regarding the impact of discrimination on substance use disorders among Sexual Minorities (SM), with a focus on alcohol, opioids, stimulants, polydrug use, chemsex, cannabis and tobacco, as well as inequalities in the access to health care services. It is alarmingly clear that SM report higher rates of morbidity if compared to the general population. Health care delivery inequalities have also been reported in this special population. Also, the lack of data from low- and middle-income countries on substance use among SM is a major concern. Certainly, discrimination play a key-role among leading factors to substance abuse, continued use, disorders, and lower levels of preventive and treatment interventions. However, it may be difficult to estimate the impact of discrimination because of the lack of research data and different methodologies of literature studies. Moreover, SM are differently categorized and defined and evidences may be not comparable between studies. There is an urgent need of strategic guidelines and research investments aimed at prioritizing these populations disproportionately impacted by substance use. Equity-oriented policies and programs can facilitate opportunities and decrease substance use in these vulnerable subgroups, including community- and peer-led initiatives and nonjudgmental and inclusive health services.

Mental health-related quality of life by sex and sexual identity among U.S. adults with alcohol and tobacco use disorder

INTRODUCTION

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and tobacco use disorder (TUD) are more severe among some sexual minority subgroups. It is less understood whether mental health indicators also differ by sexual identity among those with more severe forms of AUD and TUD. We examined differences in mental health-related QoL by sex-specific sexual identity subgroup among those meeting criteria for moderate-to-severe AUD or moderate-to-severe TUD.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the National Epidemiologic Study of Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (2012-2013; n = 36,309). Our analyses focused on those meeting criteria for past-year moderate-to-severe AUD (n = 2341) and past-year moderate-to-severe TUD (n = 3675). Using multivariable linear regression, we examined associations of sex-specific sexual identity subgroups with mental health-related QoL, while controlling for (a) sociodemographic characteristics, (b) disorder severity, and (c) risk and protective factors (adverse childhood experiences, parental history of substance misuse, stressful life events, and social support).

RESULTS

Among those with past-year moderate-to-severe AUD, gay men and heterosexual, bisexual, and gay/lesbian women had significantly lower mental health-related QoL compared to heterosexual men in fully adjusted models. Among those with past-year moderate-to-severe TUD, gay men and heterosexual and gay/lesbian women had significantly lower mental health-related QoL compared to heterosexual women. Bisexual and heterosexual women were not significantly different in fully adjusted models.

DISCUSSION

Clinicians should consider the variability in mental health-related QoL among those with moderate-to-severe AUD and TUD particularly for women and sexual minorities. Consideration of current and past stressors and the degree of social support may be beneficial when conducting assessments and forming treatment plans.

Minority stress and the inner critic/oppressive sociocultural schema mode among sexual and gender minorities

Several adverse psychological outcomes among sexual and gender minorities (SGM) are well documented in the literature. Notwithstanding the emergence of these data, SGM still receive little attention regarding psychological interventions, which include Schema Therapy (ST), an emerging integrative psychotherapy approach. Even though revisions have been proposed to expand ST’s understanding of emotional needs, schemas, domains, and schema modes, there is a gap in our understanding of SGM. Based on that, the main goal of this theoretical essay is to propose a specific ST intervention for SGM, addressing sociocultural aspects aiming at promoting a healthy functioning that can interpose oppression and internalized prejudice. To this end, we will present (a) the minority stress theoretical framework; (b) the ST model applying to SGM clients; and (c) a few strategies of ST intervention for SGM clients, highlighting the need for strengthening individuals’ healthy schema mode. It should be noted that, despite clinical work being relevant, there are social variables supporting and maintaining maladaptive structures. We hope the therapeutic interventions proposed promote dialogue on this subject and encouraging positive societal changes.

Discrimination and alcohol problems among heavy drinking HIV-positive men who have sex with men: The buffering effect of a brief Motivational Intervention to reduce alcohol use

INTRODUCTION

Heavy alcohol use negatively impacts health outcomes among people with HIV and is especially prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM). Alcohol problems among MSM with HIV may occur, in part, due to increased stress caused by experiences of identity-based discrimination, such as heterosexism, HIV stigma, and racism. The current study examined (a) whether MSM with HIV who experience greater identity-based discrimination reported higher levels of alcohol problems over time in the absence of alcohol intervention, and (b) whether motivational interviewing (MI) to reduce alcohol use would attenuate the effects of discrimination on alcohol problems.

METHODS

Data came from a clinical trial in which MSM with HIV were randomized into brief MI for alcohol harm reduction [n = 89] or an HIV treatment as usual assessment only control [TAU; n = 91]. Alcohol use and problems were assessed at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS

Generalized Estimating Equations found a significant interaction between MI and baseline identity-based discrimination, such that in those not receiving MI, discrimination prospectively predicted alcohol problems over time (B = 0.065, SE = 0.018, p < .001, 95% Wald CI [.030- 0.100]). In those receiving MI, discrimination did not have an effect (B = - 0.002, SE = 0.131, p = .987, 95% Wald CI [- 0.258 to 0.254]).

CONCLUSIONS

Even without explicitly targeting experiences of identity-based discrimination, a person-centered intervention, like MI, appears to mitigate the negative impact of identity-based discrimination on alcohol-related problems.

Recovery among sexual minorities in the united states population: Prevalence, characteristics, quality of life and functioning compared with heterosexual majority

BACKGROUND

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals ("sexual minorities" [SMs]) are overrepresented among individuals suffering from alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems. However, little is known regarding differences, particularly in functioning and well-being, between SMs and heterosexuals in recovery from AOD problems.

METHOD

Cross-sectional, nationally representative sample of US adults who resolved an AOD problem (N = 2002; National Recovery Study [Kelly et al., 2017]). Univariate analyses tested for differences between SMs and heterosexuals on socio-demographic, AOD use/treatment and clinical/legal factors. Unadjusted regressions tested for group differences on indices of current functioning and well-being. Multivariable regressions investigated factors that differentiated groups to understand which might explain any observed group disparities in functioning and well-being. LOWESS analyses explored differences across time in recovery on functioning/well-being.

RESULTS

Prevalence of SMs in the US recovery population was 11.7% (n = 220). Compared with heterosexuals (88.3%, n = 1666), SMs had shorter time in recovery (OR=0.97; 95% CI: 0.96, 0.99); were less likely to be employed (OR=0.64; 95% CI: 0.43, 0.96); and more likely to have a co-occurring psychiatric disorder (OR=2.24; 95% CI: 1.49, 3.37), an arrest history (OR=1.61; 95% CI: 1.08, 2.39), and report opioids as primary substance (OR=2.50; 95% CI: 1.18, 5.28). Unadjusted models showed, compared to heterosexuals, SMs had significantly worse levels on all functioning and well-being outcomes. Adjusted models explained most differences, except for psychological distress.

CONCLUSION

SMs evince more problematic clinical/legal histories and face greater psychosocial challenges in recovery. Research is needed to understand the unique experiences of recovering SMs in order to better address observed functioning and well-being disparities.

Associations between discrimination and substance use among college students in the United States from 2015 to 2019

Discrimination has been associated with adverse health behaviors and outcomes, including substance use. Higher rates of substance use are reported among some marginalized groups, such as lesbian, gay, and bisexual populations, and have been partially attributed to discrimination. This study uses 2015-2019 National College Health Assessment data to determine whether college students reporting discrimination due to sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, gender, or age report greater substance use than their peers who do not report such experiences. Additionally, we assess exploratory questions regarding whether substance choices differ among students who reported facing discrimination. Over time, about 8.0% of students reported experiencing discrimination in the past year. After applying inverse probability treatment weights (IPTWs), exposure to discrimination was associated with an excess of 44 cases of marijuana use per 1000 students, an excess of 39 cases of alcohol use per 1000 students, and an excess of 11 cases of prescription painkiller use per 1000 students. Multivariable logistic regression models with IPTW demonstrated that students who experienced discrimination were more than twice as likely to use inhalants and methamphetamine. These students were also significantly more likely to use other drugs, including opiates, non-prescribed painkillers, marijuana, alcohol, hallucinogens, cocaine, and cigarettes; however, the differences with peers were smaller in magnitude. Students who experienced discrimination did not differ from peers who reported non-prescribed antidepressants use and were significantly less likely to use e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. Associations between discrimination and substance use vary by race, gender, sexual orientation, and age. These findings indicate that discrimination has significant associations with many kinds of substance use; however, the magnitude varies by substance type. More institutional efforts to address sources of discrimination affecting college students are needed.

A theoretical framework to promote minority PhD and DNP student success in nursing education

BACKGROUND

Nursing PhD and DNP programs lack diversity and cultural responsiveness and, as a result, minority students are underrepresented in these programs. Stressors specific to being a member of a minority population, defined as minority stress, contribute to a range of barriers for ethnic/racial minority, male and LGBTQ PhD and DNP students. There is an urgent need for faculty and administrators to support minority doctoral student success by taking proactive steps to identify and begin to deconstruct these barriers. Doctorally-prepared nursing faculty serve as mentors and role models for doctoral students, provide exemplars for how to use scientific humility to research health inequities, implement evidence-based practice and develop the next generation of nurse scientists. Combating educational inequities for minority doctoral students is a first step in advancing health equity beyond academia.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical synthesis to promote minority PhD and DNP student success in academia.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

The minority doctoral student success (MDSS) framework was developed using Schneider's attraction-selection-attrition framework, key concepts from the literature, and professional and personal experience to capture the minority doctoral student experience. A systems approach was used to identify multi-level influences on the minority student experience, including antecedents at each stage of the academic journey, and how minority stress and opportunity inherently affect the process.

CONCLUSIONS

Diversity is essential to reimagine nursing doctoral education. This theoretical framework provides an approach to understanding the minority PhD and DNP student experience and the role of faculty and the academic organization in mediating barriers and creating opportunities to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Minority stress and alcohol use in sexual minority women's daily lives

Sexual minority women (i.e., women who identify as lesbian, bisexual, or other non-heterosexual orientations) report more hazardous drinking compared to heterosexual women. Sexual minority stress (SMS), or experiences related to sexual orientation-based discrimination and marginalization, have been implicated as contributing to these disparities. The association between sexual minority stress and alcohol use has been supported in cross-sectional, and to a limited extent, longitudinal studies. Few studies, however, have examined associations between SMS and alcohol use in sexual minority women's daily lives. Young sexual minority women (age 18-35; N = 321) were recruited to participate in a 14-day daily diary study in which they reported each morning on their SMS and alcohol use (drinking or not; drinking quantity; alcohol consequences) from the previous day. SMS was operationalized in four ways (global negative SMS experiences, specific SMS events, concealment of identity, discrimination). Results from concurrent multilevel models revealed that on days when sexual minority women experienced more global negative SMS, any specific SMS event, or discrimination, they were more likely to drink. Further, prospective models indicated that participants drank more and were more likely to report binge drinking on the day after they experienced at least one SMS event. These findings extend prior research by demonstrating that the association between SMS and alcohol use extends to the daily level of analysis among sexual minority women. Understanding the connection between SMS and alcohol use among sexual minority women is imperative to developing culturally tailored interventions to improve the health and well-being of this at-risk group. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

Patterns of high-risk drinking among medical students: A web-based survey with machine learning

BACKGROUND

Prior studies have found increased rates of alcohol consumption among physicians and medical students. The present study aims to build machine learning (ML) models to identify patterns of high-risk drinking (HRD), including alcohol use disorder, within this population.

METHODS

We analyzed data collected through a web-based survey among Brazilian medical students. Variables included sociodemographic data, personal information, university status, and mental health. Stratification for HRD was carried out based on the AUDIT-C scores. Three ML algorithms were used to build classifiers to predict HRD among medical students: elastic net regularization, random forest, and artificial neural networks. Model interpretation techniques were adopted to assess the most influential predictors for models' decisions, which represent potential factors associated with HRD.

RESULTS

A total of 4840 medical students were included in the study. The prevalence of HRD was 53.03%. The three ML models built were able to distinguish individuals with HRD from low-risk drinking (LRD) with very similar performance. The average AUC scores in the cross-validation procedure were around 0.72, and this performance was replicated in the test set. The most important features for the ML models were the use of tobacco and cannabis, monthly family income, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical activities.

CONCLUSIONS

This study proposes that ML models may serve as tools for initial screening of students regarding their susceptibility for at-risk drinking or alcohol use disorder. In addition, we identified several key factors associated with HRD that could be further investigated and explored for preventive and assistance measures.

The Impact of Closeness to Non-Parental Adults in Social Networks on Substance Use among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men

Non-parental adults (NPAs), or adults in social networks other than parents and romantic/sexual partnersare an under-examined potential resource in the lives of young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Using survey and social network data from a sample (n = 169) of ethnically diverse YMSM in a Midwestern city, this article examines longitudinal associations between emotional closeness to NPAs and subsequent substance use among YMSM. After controlling for race/ethnicity, closer relationships with NPAs were associated with a lower likelihood of binge-drinking and marijuana use six months later. In an exploratory set of analyses, the level of connectedness between NPAs and other members of social networks was not associated with substance use. Future studies should continue to examine the protective role of NPAs for both substance use and other health behaviors among YMSM.