Mental Health and LGBTQIA+
The mental health of individuals identifying with the LGBTQIA+ community requires thoughtful consideration and care regarding the unique barriers faced in experiencing equity, safety and inclusion. Many experience health inequities partly due to the stigmatization of gender and sexual minorities and discrimination. The LGBTQIA+ population continues to face much adversity, relating to their mental health, reporting mental health issues such as mood and anxiety disorders (HESA, 2019). Individuals identifying as part of this community are three to four times more likely to report suicidal thoughts compared to their counterparts (HESA, 2019).
Factors Impacting LGBTQIA+ Mental Health
The discrimination and stigmatization that gender and sexual minorities experience can be internalized and contribute to "minority stress" (HESA, 2019). Navigating discrimination, social rejection, harassment, peer acceptance, societal exception, and family reactions can impose significant emotional distress (Moagi et al., 2021). Factors impacting mental health include stress or anxiety about concealing their identity or personal life and experiencing discrimination and harassment in day-to-day life. Rejection from friends and family, experiencing hate speech or hate crimes accompany feelings of shame, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and substance abuse.
Supporting your Mental Health
Mental health issues are not only seen in the adult community but among youth and adolescents. Connecting with others and building a supportive network of friends and allies can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness (Moagi et al., 2021). Social support is a crucial factor in maintaining good mental health. Individuals who may feel isolated or marginalized due to their sexual orientation or gender identity often benefit from learning more about the LGBTQIA+ history and culture. This helps to build pride and community connection. Individuals of the LGBTQIA+ community are incredibly resilient and can thrive in the face of adversity with the help of supportive families, communities and peers.
How to support loved ones
1. Reflect on your own thoughts and biases
2. Acknowledge and respect your loved one's identity
3. Stick up for them
4. Encourage a healthy social life
5. Help seek mental health support
Considering the unique barriers and challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face, the more aware we are, the better we are able to support them. This includes fostering an inclusive environment in a space in which you have the power to ensure people can use their energy positively and creatively, rather than concealing their identities, and calling out discriminatory behaviours. Be an active ally. Be vocal about your support for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and let your friends and colleagues' families know they are not alone.
Working with a Therapist
A counsellor can be helpful in an educational and mental health journey if you feel that you are not receiving appropriate care or support. The creation of a supportive, inclusive and welcoming counselling space is critical. Seeking support is a sign of strength, and there is no shame in prioritizing your mental health and well-being. Counselling offers a space to all individuals regardless of how they identify related to topics of sexuality, gender identity, relationships, gender-affirming care and more.
The counsellors at Vaughan Counselling and Psychotherapy, such as Micaela, Melissa, and Paulina, might be a good fit and adopt a culturally sensitive and non-judgmental atmosphere to enhance the effectiveness of care.
HESA, Evidence, 28 February 2019, 1545 (Ross); Statistics Canada, Brief to the Standing Committee on Health: LGBTQ2 Health in Canada, May 2019.
HESA, Evidence, 28 February 2019, 1545 (Ross).
Moagi, M. M. van Der Wath, A. E., Jiyane, P. M., Rikihotso, R.S. (2021). Mental Healthy challenges of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people: An integrated literature review. Health SA Gesondheid. 26, 1487. https://doi.org/10.4102%2Fhsag.v26i0.1487