Despite continuous progress worldwide to lessen stigma surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, LGBTQ individuals still face unique societal challenges, taking a toll on their mental health. Stigma against this community changes how they are viewed and treated in society. Stigma can increase discrimination against individuals and hinder the progress society has made towards acceptance. Stigma can also be directly harmful to the mental health of these individuals, especially for youth.
Impact of Stigma on Mental Health
Many LGBTQ+ individuals, including youth, experience rejection, social isolation, family disapproval, and bullying at high rates, due to their identity. These experiences can cause feelings of depression and anxiety, as well as lead to a greater risk of substance abuse, self-harm, risky sexual behavior, and suicidal ideation. The Trevor Project found that nearly half (49%) of LGBTQ+ youth experienced bullying in the last year, and 12% attempted suicide in the last year.
Access to Care
Despite being at an increased risk for poor mental health, LGBTQ+ individuals often face significant barriers to high-quality mental health care. Of LGBTQ+ youth surveyed, 50% who wanted mental health care in the past year were not able to get it. There are several factors contributing to this barrier, including:
- Limited resources for the LGBTQ+ community
- Lack of access to culturally competent providers
- Fear of discrimination
- Financial constraints
These not only cause individuals to have negative experiences with mental health care providers, but can also deter them from seeking help when needed.
Support Matters
Affirming and understanding support systems can make a world of difference for LGBTQ individuals. Whether that be from peers, mentors, family, or care providers, perceived support is shown to be linked to better mental health as well as decreased substance use and sexual risk behaviors. Support looks different for everyone, but can be as simple as listening to LGBTQ+ loved ones without judgment, not adding to discrimination or stigma, using correct pronouns, and trying to break down your own biases.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the easiest ways to break down stigma surrounding the LGBTQ+ population is education. Educating yourself and others about preferred terminology, challenges faced by the community, and different identities can go a long way. Making an effort to learn about LGBTQ+ experiences can make these individuals feel loved, supported, and seen. When people are informed about the unique challenges of this community, they can better show support to its members.
Once informed, support is a key next step. Creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people at work, school, and home can help them feel supported and understood by their communities. All people deserve to have a space where they know they aren’t judged for who they are.
Finally, we must aim to make real and lasting changes in our communities. This means supporting inclusive policies, challenging stigmatizing rhetoric, uplifting members of the LGBTQ+ community, and promoting high-quality local mental health resources.
Breaking down stigma surrounding the LGBTQ+ community must be a collective effort in order to be an effective one. Actively working to remove barriers that these individuals face helps to alleviate stigma, consequently aiding the mental health and well-being of our community members.
If you or someone you love is struggling with the mental health challenges outlined above, know that support is within reach. At Georgetown Psychology, we offer affirming, inclusive care for LGBTQ+ individuals of all ages. Our team of compassionate, culturally competent providers is here to listen, support, and walk with you on your journey to healing.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can support your mental health and well-being.
We offer psychoeducational evaluations, psychological testing, adult ADHD testing, autism assessments, independent school entrance testing, developmental assessments, and neuroaffirming evaluations. Contact Sarah Smathers at sarah@georgetownpsychology.com or (301) 652-5550 to schedule an appointment or for more information.
