Mental health issues affect individuals from all walks of life, but for the LGBTQ+ community especially, it can be quite a challenge. Ironically, being LGBTQ+ does not cause mental problems; it is the stigma, family rejection, homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination. These are challenges increasing the prevalence of mental health concerns in the community. Only a thorough understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and mental health is essential to providing the support and resources needed to foster their well-being. This article explores mental health and the LGBTQ+ community, outlining challenges and ways to improve mental health outcomes through strategies and support.
Why Mental Health is a Big Concern for the LGBTQ+ Community
According to the Trevor Project, more than 1.8 million LGBTQ+ young people (ages 13-24) seriously consider suicide each year in the U.S. — and at least one attempts suicide every 45 seconds. In India, however, there is a scarcity of research related to the LGBTQ+ community and mental health. The need of the hour is a comprehensive understanding of such issues to fill the gaps in addressing LGBTQ+ mental healthcare in the country.
When it comes to mental health and the LGBTQ+ community in India, there are several concerns due to a variety of societal, environmental, and individual factors. LGBTQ+ individuals often face a variety of stressors, including the pressure of concealing their identities, fear of rejection, and the potential for violence or harassment. Such experiences lead to a higher prevalence of mental health disorders in LGBTQ+ individuals, especially the younger generation. It is these societal factors that demand the need for targeted mental health support and intervention within the LGBTQ+ community.
Challenges Faced by the LGBTQ+ Community Affecting Mental Health
The common challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in increasing mental health issues are:
- Stigmatization: Unlike in Western countries, a sizeable portion of Indian society views homosexuality as against social, cultural, and religious values. On the legal aspect, homosexuality in India was legalized only recently in 2018.
- Discrimination: Discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community occurs in various settings, including workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, and even within families. This induces feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and chronic stress, all of which can negatively impact mental health.
- Family Rejection: Homosexuality is frowned upon by most families, resulting in the fear of rejection and disappointing one’s family. This leads to severe anxiety and depression, possibly ending in tragic outcomes, especially in LGBTQ+ youth.
- Homophobia and Transphobia: Social homophobia and transphobia, including negative attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people, result in self-loathing and shame, exacerbating mental health issues. This prevents individuals from seeking help and support, worsening their mental health outcomes.
- Lack of Healthcare: Lack of psychological and medical healthcare customized to LGBTQ+ issues is vital for their mental health. Unfortunately, the community faces problems due to uninformed or biased healthcare providers, leading to inadequate care and restricting the mental health support they need.
Mental Health Challenges Faced by the LGBTQ+ Community
The LGBTQ+ community faces a range of mental health issues, all of which are experienced by others, too. However, such problems are prevalent in the community compared to the general population due to stigmatization. Common mental health issues include:
Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety are common mental issues among LGBTQ+ individuals, with the primary reason being social ostracization and fear of family rejection. Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worry, when not addressed, can impact daily functioning and lead to tragic outcomes.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is another significant issue within the LGBTQ+ community. Many resort to alcohol and drugs as a way of coping with mental problems. Eventually, dependency takes a toll, creating an addiction that could lead to even worse problems.
Suicidal Ideation
Suicidal thoughts and behavior are a cause for concern among the LGBTQ+ community around the world, particularly the youth. Societal rejection, bullying, and lack of support can drive individuals to contemplate or attempt suicide at much higher rates than their heterosexual and cisgender peers.
Body Image and Eating Disorders
Body image issues and eating disorders are also prevalent in the LGBTQ+ community, especially among transgender individuals and gay men. The desire to conform to specific body ideals can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors, resulting in severe physical and mental health consequences.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
LGBTQ+ individuals who endure microtrauma might not meet the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis, yet they often suffer significantly from minority stressors. These include rejection sensitivity, internalized phobia, marginalization, and discrimination in both personal and healthcare settings.
How LGBTQ+ Individuals Can Protect Their Mental Health
It might seem complicated, but there is much that an LGBTQ+ individual can do when it comes to mental health issues. From seeking therapy to education and self-care, here are some ways individuals engage in mental care.
Affirmative Therapy
Seeking therapy from mental health professionals who are knowledgeable and affirming of LGBTQ+ identities can provide a safe space to explore issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Building a Support Network
A support network that includes LGBTQ+ people and those supportive of their cause is crucial for mental health. A support network can consist of family members, friends, and support groups, irrespective of sexual orientation. This can address identity affirmation, reduce feelings of isolation, and improve mental well-being.
Self-Care
Self-care practices such as regular exercise, mindfulness meditation, and hobbies can help reduce stress and improve overall mental health. LGBTQ+ individuals need to prioritize activities that bring joy and relaxation.
Unplug
LGBTQ+ individuals would do well not to follow countless stories of human rights violations against the community unless it is for research and activism. Following such content on social media can adversely impact mental health, leading to feelings of anger, sadness, hopelessness, and fear. As much as there are problems, there are organizations and sections of society making a mammoth effort to address such issues.
Focus On Physical Health
LGBTQ+ individuals need to focus on physical health, essential for emotional well-being. Maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, and exercise reduces depression risk. Eating nutritious meals and exercising can lower stress hormones and boost endorphins, enhancing mood and energy.
Education
Education is a powerful tool in combating discrimination and stigma. While LGBTQ+ individuals can benefit from education about their rights and resources, educating others can foster a more inclusive and understanding environment. One crucial document addressing LGBTQ+ concerns, mental health, and rights is the International Court of Justice (ICJ) report of 2019: Living with Dignity: Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity-Based Human Rights Violations in Housing, Work, and Public Spaces in India.
How Society and Family Can Support LGBTQ+ People in Dealing with Mental Health Problems
Respect Their Identity
Respect the identity of LGBTQ+ people in your life; Acknowledge their way of living and how they choose to be addressed by their preferred gender pronouns. Stand up for family members or friends against discrimination to provide security.
Promoting Inclusivity and Acceptance
Society and families promoting inclusivity and acceptance create a safe environment for individuals in schools, workplaces, and communities where LGBTQ+ individuals can live peacefully without fear of discrimination.
Supportive Healthcare
Healthcare providers must be educated on LGBTQ+ issues to provide competent and affirmative care. This includes understanding the unique mental health needs of LGBTQ+ patients and offering appropriate support and resources. Families and friends should help connect those afflicted to supportive health networks.
Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth
Families can support LGBTQ+ youth by accepting their identities and providing a safe and loving environment. Schools and institutions should implement anti-bullying rules to create a supportive network.
Owing to the unique challenges, mental health is a significant concern for the LGBTQ+ community. Understanding the stigmatization and such challenges, advocating support, and implementing measures to ensure positive mental health outcomes in individuals are the key to moving forward. Affirmative therapy, strong support networks, self-care, and societal acceptance are vital components that will help make them feel an inclusive part of society, fostering a better and safer world for the LGBTQ+ community.
