Sexual Orientation in Relation to Depressive Symptoms and Substance Use
This study examines the association between depressive symptoms and substance use patterns among college-aged women, with a focus on the lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) community. 505 full-time college student women aged 18 to 26 participated in the study. Participants completed assessments for depressive symptoms, alcohol use, and drug misuse. Using multiple linear regression, we examined whether sexual orientation would moderate a hypothesized association between depressive symptoms and substance misuse. Contrary to hypotheses, sexual orientation did not moderate the association between depression symptoms and alcohol use; however, depressive symptoms were strongly associated with drug misuse among both heterosexual and LGB participants. Integrating LGB-affirming principles into treatment and gaining a better understanding substance misuse and alcohol use among the LGB population is crucial for addressing substance use disparities effectively.