URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking study reveals that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ+) college students, particularly those of immigrant origin, face alarming rates of alcohol use linked to discrimination. The research, published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, highlights a troubling correlation between experiences of harassment due to sexuality and increased alcohol consumption among this vulnerable demographic.
The study surveyed 691 LGBQ+ college students aged 18–25, with 177 (26%) of them identified as being of immigrant origin. Researchers found that while overall drinking rates were lower among immigrant-origin students, the negative impact of discrimination—such as name-calling and threats—was a significant driver for increased alcohol use among these individuals compared to their non-immigrant peers.
These findings are particularly urgent as they shine a light on the mental health challenges faced by LGBQ+ students. The distress from heterosexist discrimination creates a heightened risk of alcohol dependency, especially when students turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism for anxiety. The study underscores that those with intersecting marginalized identities, including sexual orientation and immigrant status, may be especially vulnerable.
According to lead researcher Claudia A. Delbasso, the study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions. “It’s crucial to identify minority stressors and promote healthier coping strategies, such as emotional regulation and problem-solving skills,” she stated. This is particularly necessary for students who navigate multiple layers of discrimination.
The implications of this study are profound. With alcohol use already known to correlate with adverse health outcomes, addressing these intersectional stressors is essential for the well-being of LGBQ+ students. The research suggests that interventions must be culturally appropriate and tailored to the unique experiences of immigrant-origin students.
As college campuses continue to grapple with issues of discrimination, understanding the specific challenges faced by LGBQ+ populations is critical. This study serves as a call to action for universities to implement supportive measures that can help mitigate the impact of discrimination and promote healthier coping mechanisms.
For further insights, see the study by Claudia A. Delbasso et al., titled “Anxiety coping motives moderate links between discrimination and alcohol use in immigrant-origin and non-immigrant LGBQ+ college students,” available in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research (2025). The DOI for the study is 10.1111/acer.70174.
This urgent research is a crucial step towards understanding and addressing the mental health needs of LGBQ+ students in today’s educational landscape.
