LGBTQ+ mental health struggles are often overlooked in our society and remain a complex journey brought by a unique set of life challenges and stigmas. Follow us as we dive into the intricate web of our LGBTQ+ mental health, aiming to provide insight and support to the community that has long fought for acceptance.
A little about my experience on this topic around mental health:
Growing up in South Africa as a quiet individual, I always felt like I needed to hide the true version of myself. Most queer people experience this sort of mental struggle of fighting between two versions of ourselves, the one we hide and the one we present to the world. I would present a carefully crafted curated version of myself, trying to shield myself from ridicule and discrimination, afraid that people will treat me differently if they knew I was gay. Looking back, I see now how damaging these behaviors were on my personality. Even today, I struggle with being seen. There’s this part of me that wants to be seen, and the person who chooses to be invisible at the same time.
Now, as I embrace my identity, openly, I'm having to pull back the layers of learned behaviors that once shielded me, but now hold me back from being authentic and carefree. Through this journey of self-discovery, and with tales of colors, I’m breaking the old habits, learning, new traits and self-reflecting on how I can positively contribute to my life and the LGBT community. I'm striving for a new norm we're queer acceptance is everywhere. By using my “charisma, uniqueness nerve and talent” to shape new standards of inclusivity in my designs.
This is why we need to address queer-mental health concerns as the emotional well-being of our community, as with any other, should be a societal priority. Not addressing these issues not only leads to human suffering but also hinders social progress. LGBTQ+ mental health is such a delicate and complex topic that requires our collective attention and empathy.
Factors Contributing to LGBTQ+ Mental Health Struggles
The queer community is as diverse as the colors of the rainbow flag and includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and many other identities. Recognizing and respecting this diversity is the first step in understanding the unique challenges each group faces everyday.
Coming out, a journey to self-discovery can be emotionally exhausting. The problem today is that there is a long-lasting stigma that stems from ignorance and discrimination, whether it's overt or subtle. It has a ripple effect on our lives. We may even experience loneliness and social isolation because we don't have a support system in our lives. Discrimination can come in many forms, including families and schools, and in severe circumstances, family rejection can lead to unstable housing and put the individual in greater danger.
Unfortunately, statistics reveal that LGBTQ+ individuals face significantly higher rates of mental health issues, compared to the general population, and recognizing these disparities is important in addressing the root causes in finding a solution.
- Bullying: Some LGBTQ+ individuals can find themselves in difficult situations around bullying, both online and offline, leading to feelings of isolation and anxiety.
- Internalized Homophobia: is the process of taking on society’s norms and placing it on our own identities, which can be an obstacle to self-acceptance.
- Substance Abuse & Addiction: can often become a coping mechanism for LGBTQ+ individuals who are suffering from emotional challenges.
- Suicidal Ideation & Self-harm: within the LGBTQ+ community needs urgent attention and an open and caring dialogue. Mental health resources are vital in preventing tragic outcomes. A survey by the Trevor Project revealed that within the past year, 45% of LGBTQ+ young individuals gave serious thought to taking their own lives, with 14% making actual attempts. And what’s worse, LGBTQ+ kids are more likely to attempt suicide as a result of the mistreatment and stigma they experience in society because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Body Image and Eating Disorders: Navigating beauty standards in today's world is particularly challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals as body issues and eating disorders often result from unrealistic expectations. The Melrose Heals podcast offers candid discussions about eating disorders and guides on how to offer assistance.
Coping Strategies & Resilience
The LGBTQ+ community must find professionals who are promoting well-being within the community, and these experts can provide a safe and understanding environment where you can freely express your feelings. In the digital age, online resources and support groups offer a lifeline for many who may lack access to in-person services, providing a sense of belonging and understanding.
- Building a Supportive Network: This is why there is power in diversity and power in the community because people who have experienced these struggles in the past, can testify and support new generations by building a network of friends and allies, who can provide an emotional safety net in the face of adversity.
- Self-Care and Mental Wellness: Practicing mindfulness, seeking therapy, and taking time for self-reflection are effective techniques for LGBTQ+ individuals to navigate their mental health journey.
- Advocacy and Activism: are ways to create change. Raising awareness about LGBTQ+ mental health struggles and working toward a more inclusive society is an integral part of the solution.
The journey from LGBTQ+ mental health is layered with challenges, but there is hope, where there is community. With open dialogue support and advocacy, we can break down the stigma and discrimination, to create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.