Surprising Statistics About LGBTQIA+ Mental Health
We are well into Pride month, and it’s a movement that has continued to grow in acceptance and popularity throughout the country for years. Of course, there’s still room to grow. There are still those who don’t fully accept the LGBTQIA+ community.
There are even those who discriminate, intimidate, and even want to cause harm.
Unfortunately, the underlying stereotypes and lingering stigmas have contributed to some staggering mental health issues within the LGBTQIA+ community over the years. While you might see a society that is open, accepting, and loving, it’s clear we have a long way to go.
Still not convinced? Let’s take a look at some surprising statistics about LGBTQIA+ mental health. Then, we’ll cover what you can do to help the community now and in the future.
The State of Mental Health in the Community
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, over 39% of the LGBTQIA+ population has reported having a mental illness in the past year. If you want to put a number on that, it’s well over five million people.
Bisexual and transgender people are often the most likely to experience mental health issues, including anxiety and/or depression.
What causes these issues? Why are people in the community more likely to experience mental health challenges? Unfortunately, it’s a variety of factors.
It starts with slurs and stigmas. For example, one study found that 28% of transgender individuals have experienced offensive comments solely because of their gender identity. A survey all the way back in 2013 found that nearly 4 in 10 LGBTQ people were rejected by family members. Without a strong support system, the stereotypes and negative/offensive statements can feel even worse.
Additionally, it’s still not uncommon for those in the community to face discrimination. Even though it’s illegal and unethical, 59% of LGBTQIA+ individuals feel they have fewer employment opportunities than their heterosexual counterparts. Some members of the community even avoid going to the doctor because they are afraid of getting stereotyped or judged.
LGBTQIA+ Youth
While all mental health struggles are concerning, we should be putting more attention on the LGBTQIA+ youth in our country. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, LGBTQIA+ teens are six times as likely to experience symptoms of depression as non-LGBTQIA+ identifying teens. They’re also twice as likely to feel suicidal.
One of the biggest reasons why teens and young adults in the community tend to struggle is a lack of support. For a young person, family, friends, and peers might feel like their entire world. When that world is filled with people who won’t support who they really are, it can be incredibly isolating and scary.
So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that so many young people are either scared to come out or struggle with mental health issues even after they do.
What Can You Do?
Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or not, it’s important to do your part to help others. Be an ally. Show your support so you can help to break the cycle of negativity and end the stigma surrounding the community.
Start by educating yourself. If these statistics surprise you, it might upset you to learn they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the mental health issues surrounding the community.
You can reach out to organizations like The Trevor Project, Human Rights Campaign, or the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) for more information.
Additionally, if you or someone you know in the community is struggling with your mental well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to live with fear, stress, anxiety, or depression forever. LGBTQIA Counseling can provide you with mental health support and an empathetic ear.
Learn more about LGBTQ+ Therapy.
