Study: Victimized individuals more likely to abuse drugs, alcohol

By Staff Writer

A new report in the journal Addiction states that individuals who are victimized are more likely to develop substance abuse problems.

The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Chicago, reveals that the link between victimization and unhealthy addictions was prevalent among women as well as gays, lesbians and bisexuals. Overall, women who reported two or more victimization experiences had up to four times the risk of alcohol dependence and drug abuse than female subjects who reported no traumatic events.

These troubling experiences included unwanted sexual activity, neglect, assault with a weapon and other types of physical violence. The study based its results on the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, which consisted of 34,635 adults.

Researchers also found that gay men, lesbians and bisexual women were significantly more likely than heterosexuals to report any victimization. The team suggested that sexual minorities may be more comfortable sharing stigmatizing experiences than heterosexuals because gay and lesbians tend to be more self-reflective.

The study concluded that gay, lesbian and bisexual teens are also at risk of using mind-altering substances to cope with being bullied, abused or excluded because of their sexual preference. These troubled youths may benefit from wilderness therapy, which aims to help children develop healthy ways to deal with stress and depression.