Does Heavy Drinking Buffer Perceived Social Isolation? Evidence of Heterogeneity by Sexual Orientation Among U.S. Young Adults

Heavy drinking is prevalent in young adulthood, yet its relationship with psychosocial well-being remains com-plex. This study examines the association between heavy drinking and social isolation among young adults and tests whether this relationship varies by sexual orientation. Using pooled, nationally representative data from the 2022 and 2024 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS), we analyzed adults aged 18–29 (N = 723). Perceived social isolation was measured using the PROMIS Social Isolation Short Form. Weighted multivariable linear regression models assessed interactions between sexual orientation and heavy drinking occasions (0 vs. 1+), adjusting for sociodemographics and psychological distress. 45.5% reported heavy drinking. Lesbian/gay (B = 5.39, p < .001) and bisexual (B = 1.49, p < .001) young adults reported higher isolation than straight peers; heavy drinking was inversely associated with isolation (B = −1.34, p < .001). A significant interaction indicated that among lesbian/gay young adults, heavy drinking was associated with lower perceived isolation (B = −5.90, p < .001). These findings suggest that alcohol-centered social spaces may play a distinct role in fostering community belonging for lesbian/gay young adults. Interventions should account for the social meanings of alcohol use to avoid unintentionally increasing isolation among sexual minoritized populations.