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LGBTQ+ & Mental Health

Jul 11
2 min read

Updated: Jul 21



1. To understand the importance of LGBTQ+ mental health, consider the following points:


  • Recognizing unique stressors: LGBTQ+ individuals often face discrimination, stigma, and social isolation, impacting mental health.

  • Higher rates of mental health issues: Studies show elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in LGBTQ+ populations.

  • Importance of supportive environments: Acceptance from family, friends, and community can significantly improve mental health outcomes.

  • Access to tailored resources: Mental health services should be inclusive and sensitive to the specific needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.

  • Advocacy for rights: Promoting LGBTQ+ rights can lead to improved mental health by reducing societal stigma and discrimination.

  • Encouraging open dialogue: Fostering conversations about LGBTQ+ mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help.



2. Why is it important to consider LGBTQ+ status in your research and practice?


  • LGBTQ+ youth and adults are subject to unique social factors that shape their health and wellness across the life course. These include rejection, exclusion, harassment, discrimination, victimization, and structural factors that limit access to resources.


  • LGBTQ+-related health disparities. Given the aforementioned social factors, LGBTQ+ youth and adults are at increased risk for:

    • Suicidal ideation and behavior

    • STIs and HIV

    • Mood and anxiety disorders

    • Smoking, alcohol use, and substance abuse

    • Food insecurity and homelessness, particularly among youth

    • Educational and economic opportunities, particularly among transgender people


  • LGBTQ+ people are likely to be participating in your studies and accessing your services. If you do not assess sexual orientation or gender identity, you will miss important information about their experiences and the development of appropriate and effective interventions.


  • Despite great need, LGBTQ+ people often experience limited access to health care, exclusion from research, negative experiences of discrimination or prejudice from a health providers, and a lack of health provider knowledge of or experience working with LGBTQ+ people.

    • These healthcare experiences specific to LGBTQ+ status can be discouraging and lead to a decrease of engagement of services.

 

  • These social factors can be further amplified for those who hold multiple marginalized identities across race, ethnicity, nativity, socioeconomic status, religion, age, and ability.

 

  • Research shows that reducing LGBTQ+ people’s exposure to stigma and discrimination improves their health and wellbeing.


3. How to be more aware of LGBTQ+ status in your work


  1. Build LGBTQ+ affirmative resource and referral networks. It’s important to make conscious referrals for LGBTQ+ clients.

  2. Make sure to have a list of LGBTQ+-specific resources available and accessible and to vet the referrals to ensure that services are culturally appropriate and responsive to the needs of LGBTQ+ community members

  3. Engage in LGBTQ+-related continuing education. Be intentional about seeking out LGBTQ+-specific continuing education opportunities

  4. Create an inclusive space. The use of language and symbolism is important in making LGBTQ clients and research participants feel welcome and affirmed. For example: Use gender inclusive alternatives (e.g. ‘everyone’ or ‘colleagues’ instead of ’ladies and gentlemen’)

  5. Share your pronouns with clients and on your website, business cards, and emails l If possible, upgrade bathrooms to be all-gender and/or single occupancy

  6. Create and post non-discrimination policies that explicitly include protections for LGBTQ+ people

  7. Display symbols of allyship (e.g., rainbow or trans flag stickers)


Final Thought


Additional Resources on how to support LGBTQ+ rights and mental health :








 
 
 

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