SAMSHA Survey 

June is National Pride month so we thought we would bring attention to the just released SAMSHA survey on Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Results from the 2021 and 2022 National Surveys on Drug Use and Behavioral Health. The results point to the heavy societal stressors of this minority population in regards to mental health and the overall use of substances as a significant coping response. 

The behavioral survey looks at any mental illness, serious mental illness, major depressive episodes, co-occurring AMI and SUD, suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts. 

The substance use survey covers cigarette smoking, alcohol use, binge drinking, heavy alcohol drinking, illicit drug use, marijuana use, CNS, stimulants, cocaine, Rx stimulants, meth, opioids, inhalants, etc. 

Women often remain under the radar in terms of substance use even now, but the stats on Lesbians and Bisexual women might surprise you so take a look. 

The report is straight forward which means an easy and fast read. 

by Kristin Kimmell, LCSW, LCAC (Retired)

Kristin Kimmell, LCSW, LCAC, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor who was also the Director of Clinical, as well as a pivotal collaborator with the Training and Research Departments at The SASSI Institute. Kris was also a private practitioner in Bloomington Indiana that provides counseling specializing in substance use, depression and anxiety, relationship, stress management, and sexual orientation issues. Kris retired from The SASSI Institute at the end of April 2024.