Preventing Harm: A Call to Support LGBTQ Youth in Schools
We’re witnessing a heartbreaking crisis among LGBTQ youth, driven by social exclusion, cultural hostility, and political rhetoric that makes them feel unseen and unsafe. Right now, these students face heightened discrimination, harassment, and exclusion—key risk factors for substance use and addiction. Now, more than ever, they need our support.
Numbers We Can’t Ignore
Research shows LGBTQ youth are more likely to experience bullying, harassment, and family rejection, contributing to higher rates of mental health struggles and substance use disorders.
81.8% of LGBTQ students feel unsafe at school due to their identity (2021 National School Climate Survey).
Trans youth are 2.5 to 4 times more likely to use substances compared to their non-trans peers, with higher rates of alcohol, cigarette, and cannabis use (PubMed)
The LGBTQ community uses substances at 3-4 times the rate of the general population (National Institute of Health).
Discrimination Drives Addiction Risk
Being LGBTQ is not a risk factor for substance use, rather, homophobia and transphobia are inherently risky social conditions. When these harmful social conditions exist in schools, homes, or communities, they threaten LGBTQ youth's mental, social, spiritual, and physical health.
Belonging: A Powerful Protective Factor
A strong sense of belonging is one of the most effective defenses against addiction. LGBTQ youth who feel connected to their school and community are significantly less likely to engage in substance use. School belonging, in particular, is a critical prevention strategy for schools & families.
Prevention Goes Beyond A Substance Use Prevention Program
As a queer-owned organization, we recognize the critical role identity plays in mental health and substance use – our role as consultants focusing on health and wellbeing is to highlight all risk factors students face. Prevention Ed stands with schools worldwide as a committed partner in creating inclusive classrooms that are affirming and safe for all students. Our goal is to help foster a culture of belonging that isn’t just supportive—it’s lifesaving.
How We Support Our LGBTQ Students
With LGBTQ youth facing increasing levels of discrimination, the time to strengthen prevention efforts is now. Schools, policymakers, and communities can make a marked difference by investing in:
Regular Check-Ins with LGBTQ Students: Build intentional connections through consistent, meaningful check-ins. Let students know they are seen, heard, and valued.
Creating Affirming Spaces: Display visible signs of support such as LGBTQ-inclusive posters, pride flags, and literature. Ensure that curriculum, language, and school policies reflect diversity and inclusivity.
Mental Health Support: Provide access to counselors trained in LGBTQ-affirming care. Implement programs that promote emotional well-being and resilience among all students.
Evidence-Based Substance Use Prevention: Address the unique risk factors that LGBTQ youth face related to substance use. Offer prevention programs that are culturally responsive and affirm students' identities.
Research shows that even one supportive adult can significantly reduce the risk of suicide for LGBTQ youth. Schools have the power to be that lifeline. Safety and belonging aren’t optional; they’re the foundation. Without them, prevention education is just information—lacking the roots needed to take hold and truly make a difference.