MENTAL HEALTH
Prejudice, discrimination, and anti-gay violence may lead members of the LGBT community to experience mental health problems and stress related disorders, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and substance abuse. Years of negative experiences can also lead to internalized homophobia, which further contributes to mental health problems. While living in a homophobic society creates special challenges that lead some of us to experience mental health issues, the majority of our community lives happy and healthy lives.
- Among gay men, drug use, combined with low self-esteem, result in behavior that increases the risk of HIV transmission.
- Among lesbians, coping with stress has lead to higher rates of alcohol and drug dependence.
- LGBT youth who reveal their sexual orientation may risk ostracism from family and friends, which can lead to feelings of self-hatred, depression and anxiety. In fact, reports suggest that gay and lesbian youth are more likely to attempt suicide than their non-gay peers.
- Prejudice against transgender individuals is perva-sive, and most mental health professionals do not have adequate training or experience to properly serve transgender individuals in need of support services.
- Lesbians and gay men who are very "out" among friends, family and community report lower rates of emotional distress and substance use/abuse.
- Gender Identity Disorder (G.I.D.) is a stigmatizing diagnosis, which forces many transgender people to admit mental illness to obtain services specific to transgender care.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
- If you or someone you know has signs or symptoms of depression or anxiety, get help from an LGBT-competent mental health professional.
- If you or someone you know depends on drugs or alcohol for a "good time" or to "get by," talk to a professional substance abuse counselor.
- If you feel isolated and alone, find a support group or join a community group that can provide peer support and friendship.
- If you are struggling with your sexual orientation or gender identity, reach out to others who have been there. You are not alone.
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