CONASAMA Presents Guide to Treat LGBTQ+ Substance Use

The Ministry of Health’s National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions (CONASAMA) has introduced a new technical guide to address substance use among the LGBTQ+ population in Mexico. The guide aims to protect the  human rights and dignity of this community.

The guide is designed to inform, support, and guide those working with LGBTQ+ communities who use psychoactive substances. It represents a collaborative effort between CONASAMA, civil society organizations, and international cooperation entities such as the European Union-Latin America and the Caribbean Bi-Regional Cooperation Program on Drug Policies (COPOLAD III).

The guide is a foundational tool for developing strategies to reach LGBTQ+ communities who use substances, says José Javier Mendoza, General Director, CONASAMA. He also highlights that the guide is not just a technical document but a declaration of principles and a commitment to equality and justice.

There is a dual stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals who use substances, which includes both the general stigma of substance use and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, says Juan Manuel Quijada, Head, CONASAMA. 

Over 41% of individuals identifying as LGBTQIA+ in Mexico report experiencing the denial of their rights solely based on their sexual orientation. This discrimination deprives them of fundamental rights and perpetuates a system that undermines equality and inclusivity.

Nuriney Mendoza, Director General of Complaints and Integral Attention at the Human Rights Commission of Mexico City, called the guide a "toolbox" for fieldwork, integrating public health, human rights, and anti-discrimination policies. She also highlighted the formation of the Interinstitutional Committee on Risk and Harm Reduction in Mexico City in 2023, where CONASAMA plays an advisory role.

The new technical guide aims to reshape approaches, behaviors, and attitudes that violate human rights and the dignity of individuals. Mexico’s LGBTQIA+ population exceeds 5 million individuals. However, alarming statistics reveal the impact of healthcare disparities within this community. The 2021 National Survey on Sexual and Gender Diversity (ENDISEG) reported that 28.7%, about 1.4 million, of LGBTQIA+ individuals have contemplated or attempted suicide, with 19.1% citing health issues as a contributing factor.

CONASAMA's commitment is to provide more inclusive services, ensuring that health care access for LGBTQ+ communities is equitable and respectful.