Cancún’s New LGBTIQ+ Support Group Aids Addiction Recovery

Cancún, Quintana Roo — A new support group named Gay Heart 45 has opened in Cancún, offering assistance to members of the LGBTIQ+ community struggling with addiction or in need of emotional and social support. The initiative aims to provide an inclusive space for individuals facing these challenges.

A Safe Space for Healing and Understanding

David Gonzalo Uicab, known as “Wiky,” the group’s sponsor, emphasized that Gay Heart 45 is open not only to LGBTIQ+ individuals but also to the general public. “What we seek is to share our experiences on these issues, to release our feelings, and to understand what we are going through,” he explained.

The group follows the 12-step philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous, conducting sessions and occasional retreats based on humanistic practices. Uicab highlighted the unique struggles faced by the LGBTIQ+ community in Cancún, including discrimination, limited job opportunities, and societal stigma—factors that often lead to emotional distress, substance abuse, depression, and anxiety.

Alarming Trends in Substance Use

Citing a three-year international study, Uicab noted that drug use within the LGBTIQ+ community is seven times higher than in the general population. The most commonly used substances include cannabis (20%), poppers (18%), and cocaine (8%), with amphetamines appearing in smaller proportions. Cannabis use is three times more prevalent among LGBTIQ+ individuals, while cocaine consumption is up to ten times higher.

Extending Support to Families

The group also welcomes parents of LGBTIQ+ children, offering guidance on acceptance and fostering loving, understanding relationships. “Parents can attend to better understand the process of acceptance, which is crucial for maintaining a bond of love and compassion,” Uicab stated.

The launch of Gay Heart 45 marks a significant step toward addressing mental health and addiction challenges within Cancún’s LGBTIQ+ community, providing a much-needed resource for healing and solidarity.