Alcohol abuse among lesbians: a descriptive study

Intensive interviews with 10 lesbian alcohol abusers revealed strong dependency needs, low self-esteem, and a high incidence of depression. Drinking increased power-related behaviors, enhanced self-esteem, and for many subjects increased feelings of depression. The findings suggest that lesbians with alcohol problems need (a) therapists who will accept their sexual orientation and (b) treatment that will help them increase their sense of power and self-esteem without alcohol.