Exploring the Unique Mental Health Needs of LGBTQIA+ Individuals

Written by Samantha Carter

As rainbow flags fly high and vibrant parades fill the streets, the world prepares to celebrate another Pride Month this June. A movement and protest in the face of violence, harassment, injustice, discrimination, and losses endured by members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Pride is an opportunity for the world to learn from this part of our history.

At APN, we embody the spirit of Pride year-round and recognize that beyond the festivities lies a deeper conversation—one that delves into the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Therefore, we believe it’s crucial to recognize the unique mental health needs of this community while providing resources that support healing and wellness.

What Does LGBTQIA+ Stand For?

Before we explore the unique mental health landscape of LGBTQIA+ individuals, let’s first make sure we understand the acronym. Each letter represents a distinct aspect of identity within the broader spectrum of human experience. Let’s break down what each letter stands for.

• L: Lesbian refers to women who are romantically or sexually attracted to other women.
• G: Gay typically refers to men who are romantically or sexually attracted to other men, though it can also be used as an umbrella term for individuals of any gender who are attracted to the same gender.
• B: Bisexual describes individuals who are attracted to more than one gender. This can include attraction to both men and women, as well as non-binary or genderqueer individuals.
• T: Transgender encompasses individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender people may identify as male, female, both, neither, or another gender entirely.
• Q: Queer is a term that has been reclaimed by some individuals as an umbrella word for sexual and gender minorities. It can encompass identities that are not strictly heterosexual or cisgender, as well as those that reject traditional labels altogether.
• I: Intersex refers to individuals who are born with variations in sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of male or female. Intersex people may have combinations of chromosomes, hormones, or genitalia that differ from societal expectations.
• A: Asexual describes individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction to others. This orientation exists on a spectrum, with some asexual individuals experiencing romantic attraction (aromantic) and others not.
• +: The plus sign acknowledges that the LGBTQIA+ acronym is not exhaustive and that there are countless other identities and experiences within the broader community. It represents inclusivity and openness to embracing all individuals, regardless of how they identify.

Understanding the meaning behind LGBTQIA+ allows us to better honor each letter, affirm the dignity and worth of every individual, and foster a culture of acceptance and belonging for everyone.

The Significance of Pride Month

Pride Month, observed annually in June, commemorates the Stonewall riots of 1969, a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA+ history when individuals stood up against police raids and discrimination at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. Since then, Pride Month has evolved into a global celebration of diversity, inclusion, and resilience. It serves as a beacon of hope for LGBTQIA+ individuals worldwide, offering a platform to amplify voices, advocate for rights, and foster a sense of belonging.

However, Pride Month is not just about celebration; it’s also a time for reflection. It’s a reminder of the struggles and injustices faced by LGBTQIA+ people, including discrimination, violence, and societal stigma. These adversities can take a toll on mental health, highlighting the need for inclusive support and resources.

Understanding Unique Challenges

LGBTQIA+ individuals often encounter a myriad of challenges that can impact their mental well-being which may include any of the following.

Social Stigma and Discrimination

Despite progress in LGBTQIA+ rights, discrimination and prejudice persist in many parts of the world. Whether it’s facing rejection from family members, bullying at school or work, or experiencing hate crimes, the constant threat of stigma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Identity Struggles

Coming to terms with one’s sexual orientation or gender identity can be a complex and emotional journey. LGBTQIA+ individuals may grapple with internalized homophobia or transphobia, feeling ashamed or invalidated because of societal norms. This struggle for self-acceptance and authenticity can exacerbate feelings of isolation and distress.

Family and Social Support

Not all LGBTQIA+ individuals receive acceptance and support from their families or communities. The lack of affirmation and understanding from loved ones can lead to feelings of rejection and loneliness, heightening the risk of depression and suicidal ideation.

Healthcare Disparities

LGBTQIA+ individuals often face barriers to accessing affirming and competent healthcare services. From encountering healthcare providers who lack cultural competency to facing discrimination in medical settings, these disparities can deter individuals from seeking necessary care, including mental health support.

Intersectional Identities

LGBTQIA+ individuals exist within diverse intersecting identities, including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and disability. Intersectionality magnifies the impact of discrimination and marginalization, further complicating mental health experiences and access to resources.

Addressing Mental Health Needs

There are many apparent challenges that the LGBTQIA+ community continues to face on a daily basis. In order to change these realities, we need to continue taking steps to foster supportive environments and access to appropriate care. Below are several ways we can do so.

Normalize Conversations About Mental Health

Open and honest discussions about mental health can help reduce stigma and create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to seek support. Allies and community leaders can play a crucial role in promoting awareness and understanding.

Provide Culturally Competent Services

Mental health professionals should receive training in LGBTQIA+-affirmative care to better serve the unique needs of this community. Affirmative therapy approaches recognize and validate individuals’ identities and experiences, fostering trust and rapport.

Here at APN, we proudly provide LGBTQIA+-affirming treatment in a safe environment with compassionate care and a variety of specialized services for community through our Queer Trauma Recovery Program.

Expand Access to Resources

Organizations and healthcare providers can increase access to LGBTQIA+ affirming resources, including therapy, support groups, hotlines, and online communities. Teletherapy platforms and digital mental health resources offer convenient options for those who may face barriers to in-person care.

All Points North is a safe place for those in the LGBTQIA+ community to seek treatment for substance use disorders, trauma, and mental health struggles.

Advocate for Policy Change

Advocacy efforts aimed at enacting policies that protect LGBTQIA+ rights, including anti-discrimination laws and inclusive healthcare policies, are essential for creating a more equitable society. By advocating for systemic change, we can address the root causes of mental health disparities.

Promote Self-Care and Resilience

Encouraging self-care practices, such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and community involvement, can help LGBTQIA+ individuals build resilience and cope with stressors. Celebrating diverse identities and fostering a sense of belonging within the community can also contribute to mental well-being.

Celebrating Pride 2024 from APN

As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s remember that the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights extends beyond the parade route. It encompasses the ongoing struggle for mental health equity and social justice. By understanding and addressing the unique mental health needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world where everyone can thrive authentically. Together, we can embrace diversity, champion acceptance, and prioritize mental health for all.

Therapy for LGBTQIA+ Individuals

Because the LGBTQIA+ community is so unique, it’s imperative that identifying individuals seek therapy from trained mental health professionals who specialize in treating this population.

Here at APN, we welcome and affirm clients of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities and proudly employ members of the LGBTQIA+ community. We recognize the inequities and threats to the community and acknowledge how these barriers negatively contribute to mental health and addiction. Most importantly, we do not tolerate discrimination of any kind and regularly conduct internal training events to ensure a united approach to protect our clients’ safety.

To set our clients up for success, we carefully screen each individual for their readiness and ability to benefit and engage safely with the entire LGBTQIA+ track. Some clients may attend certain groups and therapy while they stabilize in other elements of programming. Our offerings include:

• Queer Trauma Recovery Path – for clients ready to address trauma
• Daily process group with LGBTQIA+ peers
• Individual therapy with a trauma therapist
• Weekly psychoeducational group for the LGBTQIA+ community
• Art therapy group for LGBTQIA+ peers
• LGBTQIA+-affirming psychiatric and medical care

If you’re interested in learning more about any of our LGBTQIA+ mental health services, call us at 855.934.1178 or fill out our confidential contact form.

References

• “1969: The Stonewall Uprising.” Research Guides at Library of Congress, guides.loc.gov/lgbtq-studies/stonewall-era#:~:text=On%20June%2028%2C%201969%2C%20the,of%20gay%20and%20lesbian%20life. Accessed 24 June 2024.
• “About: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Pride Month: Library of Congress.” The Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/about/. Accessed 22 June 2024.
• Crenshaw, Kimberle. “Intersectionality.” LBGTIQ Intersect, www.lgbtiqintersect.org.au/learning-modules/intersectionality/. Accessed 24 June 2024.
• Cusick, Julia, et al. “Widespread Discrimination Continues to Shape LGBT People’s Lives in Both Subtle and Significant Ways.” Center for American Progress, 22 Mar. 2023, www.americanprogress.org/article/widespread-discrimination-continues-shape-lgbt-peoples-lives-subtle-significant-ways/.
• “Fact Sheet on Injustice in the LGBTQ Community.” National Sexual Violence Resource Center, www.nsvrc.org/blogs/fact-sheet-injustice-lgbtq-community. Accessed 24 June 2024.
• “Facts about Suicide among LGBTQ+ Young People.” The Trevor Project, 3 June 2024, www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/facts-about-lgbtq-youth-suicide/.
• Hafeez, Hudaisa et al. “Health Care Disparities Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth: A Literature Review.” Cureus vol. 9,4 e1184. 20 Apr. 2017, doi:10.7759/cureus.1184 “Internalised Homophobia.” The Rainbow Project, 30 Mar. 2021, www.rainbow-project.org/internalised-homophobia/.
• “Know Your Rights: LGBTQ Rights: ACLU.” American Civil Liberties Union, 28 Feb. 2024, www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/lgbtq-rights.
• “LGBTQ Resource List.” GLAAD, 27 Jan. 2023, glaad.org/resourcelist/.
• Moagi, Miriam M et al. “Mental health challenges of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people: An integrated literature review.” Health SA = SA Gesondheid vol. 26 1487. 20 Jan. 2021, doi:10.4102/hsag.v26i0.1487 “Pride Month 2024: Origins, Parades & Dates.” History.Com, A&E Television Networks, www.history.com/topics/gay-rights/pride-month. Accessed 22 June 2024.
• “Resource Center.” The Trevor Project, www.thetrevorproject.org/resources?s=Lesbian. Accessed 22 June 2024.