UPDATE: A groundbreaking study reveals that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ+) college students facing heterosexist discrimination are at a significantly heightened risk for alcohol use, particularly among those of immigrant origin. This urgent research, published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, underscores the critical mental health challenges confronting these students.
The study surveyed 691 LGBQ+ college students aged 18–25 across the U.S., with 177 (or 26%) identifying as being of immigrant origin. Researchers found that distress from harassment—such as name-calling and threats—was a stronger predictor of increased alcohol consumption for LGBQ+ students of immigrant backgrounds compared to their non-immigrant peers.
This alarming trend highlights a deeper issue: the intersection of sexual and racial discrimination amplifying mental health struggles. While all LGBQ+ students reported using alcohol to cope with anxiety, those from immigrant backgrounds showed unique vulnerabilities. The research indicates that the motivation to drink in response to anxiety poses a greater risk for these individuals.
According to lead researcher Claudia A. Delbasso, “The effects of heterosexist discrimination are particularly impactful for LGBQ+ students of immigrant origin, necessitating targeted interventions.” The study advocates for culturally appropriate supports and interventions aimed at promoting healthier coping mechanisms, such as emotional regulation and problem-solving strategies.
As mental health continues to be a pressing public health issue for college campuses, the findings call for immediate attention to the well-being of LGBQ+ students, especially those with intersecting marginalized identities.
The researchers emphasize that universities need to implement strategies that address both minority stressors and provide adequate resources to support these vulnerable populations.
With discrimination being a prevalent issue, this study sheds light on its far-reaching consequences. As more institutions become aware of these pressing needs, the hope is for improved mental health outcomes among LGBQ+ students across the nation.
For further details, refer to 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,” published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research in 2025 (DOI: 10.1111/acer.70174). As more universities and policymakers digest these findings, the conversation around mental health support for marginalized students is set to evolve rapidly.
