LGBTQ+ Communities and Mental Health

LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and more. These terms are used to describe someone’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Everyone has a sexual orientation and gender identity. Sexual orientation is who you are romantically or physically attracted to. Gender identity is the internal sense of being male, female, both, or neither, which is separate from your biological sex. According to a recent Gallup poll, approximately 9% of U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+, and LGBTQ+ identification is higher among younger age groups and women.

Identifying as LGBTQ+ is not a mental health condition or mental illness. However, people who are LGBTQ+ are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health conditions and challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and thoughts or attempts of suicide. These disparities are largely connected to experiences of stigma, discrimination, and unequal access to support and care.

For instance, some factors that can contribute to mental health challenges among LGBTQ+ people include:

• Rejection and isolation: LGBTQ+ people may experience a lack of acceptance of their identity from friends, family members, peers, faith communities, or society more broadly. These experiences can lead to loneliness, isolation, and emotional distress.
• Stigma and unfair treatment: Being treated unfairly, experiencing negative attitudes or bias, and/or having rights denied can increase stress and make it harder for LGBTQ+ people to feel safe, supported, and included in their communities. These factors can also make it more challenging to get mental health care.
• Harassment or violence: Many LGBTQ+ people experience harassment, bullying, violence, or fear of violence related to their identity. These factors can cause those who are LGBTQ+ to be worried and fear for their safety, and may result in traumatic experiences that can negatively impact mental health.

Additionally, many people who are part of the LGBTQ+ community also belong to other groups that often face unfair treatment and are at increased risk for mental health challenges. Examples of these groups are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color), people with chronic health conditions, and people who face barriers related to income, housing, or access to care.

Importantly, experiencing discrimination or stigma does not define LGBTQ+ people. LGBTQ+ communities are strong and resilient, and individuals thrive when they are supported and affirmed. Support and acceptance from family, friends, and communities play an important role in protecting the mental health and safety of LGBTQ+ people.

Having supportive families, communities, and peers has a strong and positive effect on the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Use a person’s chosen name and pronouns. Research shows that doing this can decrease symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
• Stand up against bullying and discrimination. Nearly half of LGBTQ+ young people reported being bullied in person, and more than a third reported online bullying in the last year. If you see something, say something.
• Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. A national survey of LGBTQ+ youth from the Trevor Project found that recent anti-LGBTQ+ efforts caused stress or anxiety in 90% of respondents. Speaking out against anti-LGBTQ+ policies and in favor of access to affirming care makes a difference.
• Create safe and welcoming spaces. LGBTQ+ youth who live in accepting communities are significantly less likely to attempt suicide.

See what we have learned about mental health in LGBTQ+ populations through our online mental health screening program.

If you or a friend are struggling with your mental health, take an anonymous, free, and private mental health test. It only takes a few minutes, and after you are finished, you will be given information about the next steps you can take based on the results.

Take a screen