Members of the LGBTQ+ community have unique and complex health needs that heterosexuals don’t face. Health disparities and barriers to care can make staying healthy challenging, but knowing LGBTQ+ health risks can ensure you stay on top of your health. Local and national resources can help you prevent or treat these health conditions with the right medical testing, care and support.
DrugWatch.com is a free web resource that provides health information guides and research on various medical conditions and unsafe drugs.
"DrugWatch works with medical professionals to help consumers can get the information they need to make informed health care decisions. Members of the LGBTQ+ community have unique and complex health needs that heterosexuals don’t face. Health disparities and barriers to care can make staying healthy challenging, but knowing LGBTQ+ health risks can ensure you stay on top of your health."
The site recently published a comprehensive LGBTQ+ Health Guide — a resource that could be a lifesaving resource, especially since every U.S. state has reported a severe spike in opioid overdoses and deaths during the coronavirus pandemic.
According to the CDC, while the Northeast had the highest increases in deaths involving synthetic opioids, the Midwest had the highest increases in deaths involving psychostimulants, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, mixed amphetamine salts (Benzedrine, Adderall, Vyvanse), and methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin).
And according to this report, people who identify as LGBTQ often face social stigma, discrimination, and other challenges not encountered by people who identify as heterosexual; greater risk of harassment and violence; and as a result of these and other stressors are at increased risk for various behavioral health issues including self-medication through substance abuse.
Check out the guide here: https://www.drugwatch.com/health/lgbtq/