Presenter
Haylee Canadas
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
Sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) have higher rates of disability and chronic illness compared to the general population, and current literature suggests that both groups face higher rates of substance misuse and poor mental health outcomes. Despite this, little research has investigated the intersection of these identities. From February to March 2022, data was collected from 1,316 SGM adults living in the US. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between disability status and mental health and substance misuse outcomes while controlling for demographics. After adjusting for covariates, SGMs with a disability had significantly increased odds of anxiety (OR[95% CI] = 2.33 [1.83, 2.96 ]), depression (OR[95% CI] = 2.74 [2.03, 3.71]), considered suicide in the last year (OR[95% CI] = 1.81 [1.40, 2.36]), hazardous cannabis use (OR[95% CI] = 1.85 [1.38, 2.47]), over-the-counter drug misuse (OR[95% CI] = 2.57 [1.92, 3.44]), and prescription drug misuse (OR[95% CI] = 2.07 [1.58, 2.72]) compared to SGMs without any disability. Sexual and gender minorities with a disability are at a significantly higher risk of all mental health outcomes and all substance misuse outcomes with the exception of alcohol misuse. Healthcare providers should seek to understand the intersecting identities of their patients to better identity and address healthcare needs.
Faculty Mentor
Kelsey A. Gately, OTD, OTR/L
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Canadas, Haylee, "Disability, Mental Health & Substance Use in SGMs" (2025). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 193.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/193
