Mental Health and the LGBTQ+ Community
Mental health can affect everyone. It is also quite common in individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. The reason is not because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
It is essential to understand that identifying as LGBTQ+ is not a mental issue or a mental health disorder. Being LGBTQ+ does not cause mental health problems. However, members of this community experience many things that can affect their overall mental health. For example, they may face discrimination, rejection, social isolation, homophobia, transphobia, and fear of coming out, to name a few.
Intersectionality and Mental Health
It's also important to note that many individuals identify as LGBTQ+ and are part of another community that is also marginalized. For example, they may be discriminated against further depending on a physical disability, their religion, belonging to another group such as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color), having low socioeconomic status, and so much more. These individuals have even more complex experiences that are not easily addressed.
What Does LGBTQ+ Mean?
LGBTQ+ is the acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning), and others. The plus sign at the end represents other sexual identities such as asexual or pansexual and offers other representations.
This acronym represents many individuals with a range of sexualities and gender identities. This article will utilize the term LGBTQ+, but there are other acronyms such as LGBTQA+ or LGBTQIA+. All these are meant to represent the diverse community and include all identities.
Historical Perspectives on LGBTQ+ and Mental Health
Many medical professionals once believed that LGBTQ+ was a mental illness and needed psychiatric treatment. However, this changed in 1990 when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality as a form of mental illness.
Mental Health Challenges in the LGBTQ+ Community
The reasons for higher mental health issues among LGBTQ+ people are complex, and everyone’s experiences are different.
Key Findings from Studies
- Members of this community are more likely to engage in suicidal behavior and self-harm than non-LGBTQ+ people.
- Gay and bisexual men are 4x more likely to attempt suicide.
- Members of this community are one and a half times more likely to develop depression and anxiety.
- Members of the LGBTQ+ community may be concerned about their body image, which can lead to an eating disorder. Eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder are also quite common in this community.
The thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with these mental health issues can significantly affect one’s daily functioning, compounding the challenges they already face.
The Coming Out Process
Depending on the person, “coming out” can be liberating, difficult, or a combination of the two. If someone comes out and is rejected, they may never come out again. Hiding who you are from others can affect mental well-being.
Individuals also experience internalized homophobia, which can be described as negative feelings about one’s sexuality or gender identity. Suppose someone experiences homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, or is discriminated against for their sexual identity or gender expression. In that case, this may affect how they view themselves and lead to shame and guilt toward themselves.
Seeking Help
If you are experiencing issues, reach out. It is important to seek help and support if you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues.
Some therapists specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals. However, if you choose a mental health professional not specialized in LGBTQ+ issues, all therapists are trained in cultural competency. A culturally competent therapist works to be an ally for others and will avoid inequality of care.
Everyone deserves help and support regardless of who you are.
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