Meth

=LGBT Crystal Meth Use: =

The use of crystal meth has increased drastically within the last few years in the LGBT community. According to a survey done by the University of Pittsburgh in 2008 all gay, lesbian and bisexual members of society had a higher use rate of crystal meth by 30% compared to 7% of straight youth. The reason for such a high use of meth within the LGBT community has been studied and researched over the past several years. Dr. Michael P. Marshal (2008) of the University of Pittsburgh stated that “homophobia, discrimination and victimization are largely what are responsible for these substance use disparities in young gay people”.

During the use of Meth one’s body and behaviours quickly start to noticeably make a negative change. Since the effects of the drug cause the user to have an increase in libido and a rapidly declining inhibition it causes an obsessive drive for sex while on the drug. This then comes into play with unprotected sex and sexual activity while under the influence of meth making bad decision making more prone. These actions unfortunately most often result in contracting an STI most commonly, syphilis, HIV/AIDS, and Hepatitis B or C. This is one of the reasons LGBT members keep using meth, to fulfill their sexual fantasies. According to Mike Rizzo (2007) the use of crystal meth among the LGBT community is a way to seek pleasure and intensify their sex lives. It helps them to feel accepted and helps them to realize that life has a meaning. Overall it helps the LGBT society to deal with the pain they experience being discriminated against for their homosexuality and the overall process of coming out to their family, friends and society as a whole. 

Being aware that these drastic behaviours shown by the LGBT society helps to understand that they do suffer challenges throughout their lives, but should still be looked at as “normal” despite their negative ways of coping.

Michael Marshal, host of the study done by the University of Pittsburgh on alcohol and drug use in the LGB community said that “it is important to remember that the vast majority of gay youth are happy and healthy, despite the stressors of living in a violent homophobic society”.

The LGBT community’s ongoing use of crystal meth is a lingering issue yet to be faced and conquered. It should not be used as a way to negatively look upon the LGBT members of society because they should be looked at as any other typical user. Targeting their sexuality has caused much of their drug use and should not be encouraged in society.
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 * __VIDEO: Homosexual Meth user`s__**

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