What Does the Data Tell Us About Mental Health in the LGBTQ+ Community?

It’s exceedingly important to understand the state of mental health in marginalized groups across this country. Unfortunately, for the LGBTQ+ community, that can be difficult on a large scale.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, most large studies don’t account for every identity within the queer community.

However, those studies have shown a general trend. Research shows that members of the LGBTQ+ community are at a greater risk of developing mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.

LGBTQ+ youth are particularly at risk and more than twice as likely to develop mental health issues as heterosexual youth.

Let’s take a closer look at the mental health state of the LGBTQ+ community, why it’s important, and what you can do to prioritize your own mental wellness.

What Contributes to Mental Health Risk Factors?

There are a variety of things that increase the risk of mental health issues in the queer community. Coming out, in general, can be a daunting experience.

Read More: “Considering Therapy? Here’s What You Should Look For When Choosing A Therapist For You.”

According to the Survey Center on American Life, a 2024 survey found that 67% of adults believe that homosexuality should be accepted in society.

That’s a number that continues to go up, but there are still areas of the country where it’s largely not accepted. It can be especially difficult for young people to come out as they run the risk of rejection, harm, social isolation, or discrimination.

Rejection is a problem for adults, too. A 2013 survey found that 40% of adults in the queer community have experienced rejection from someone in their inner circle.

Everyone wants to feel accepted. So, the idea of being “turned away,” especially by a loved one, can be daunting.

Some people are so against the LGBTQ+ community that they will go to great lengths to cause harm. As a result, it’s more common than most people probably think for those within the community to experience some kind of trauma.

A study by The Trevor Project discovered that 37% of youth within the LGBTQ+ community have high levels of trauma symptoms.

These symptoms could be caused by neglect, physical abuse, bullying, or identity-based shaming.

Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

Unfortunately, the risk factors that those in the community face can make them more likely to lean on unhealthy coping mechanisms.

If you don’t have a strong support system in your life to help you work through any mental health issues, you might look to other things to manage your well-being.

Statistically, LGBTQ+ adults are more likely to develop a substance abuse disorder. That can lead to other mental or physical health issues and create a vicious cycle that’s hard to escape.

Those in the LGBTQ+ community are also statistically more likely to commit self-harm or attempt suicide. For example, 40% of transgender individuals have attempted suicide, compared to just 5% of the general population.

Mental Health Care and Support

It’s not uncommon for people in the queer community to feel uncomfortable looking for mental health providers.

Read More: “How Trauma Therapy is Helpful fo Trauma”

Maybe you’ve found yourself in that situation.

Have you had a bad experience in the past? Or are you worried about discrimination based on what you see from the rest of society?

Don’t let that fear keep you from getting the help you deserve. Do your research when it comes to finding a mental health professional to work with.

There are many out there who are not only accepting but also understand what you’re going through.

Feeling accepted by a therapist who can empathize and provide active support is essential.

Your mental health isn’t something to take lightly.