Journal of Public Health International

Journal of Public Health International

Current Issue Volume No: 7 Issue No: 2

Research-article Article Open Access
  • Available online freely Peer Reviewed
  • Mental Health Disparities Among LGBTQ+ Youth And The Strategies To Promote Their Well-Being

    1 MPH Global Public Health, Faculty of Health Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK 

    2 Senior Lecturer in Health Research, Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK 

    Abstract

    Introduction

    Compared to their heterosexual counterparts, cisgender LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience numerous mental health conditions, for instance, suicidal ideation, stress, and anxiety. This study aimed to explore mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth while identifying strategies to promote their well-being.

    Methodology

    Incorporating a systematic approach, studies were selected according to the predefined inclusion criteria, ensuring recentness and relevance. Five databases were systematically searched while the PRISMA flowchart was employed for illustrating the systematic selection process. The PEO framework directed the study selection. Thematic analysis was applied to identify themes that were related to the study aim.

    Results

    Five themes were emerged including policy changes and legal frameworks, contextual and cultural factors, family and social support, underlying factors of mental health, and healthcare services access. The synthesis of the literature uncovers the multifaceted relationship between cultural and contextual factors and policy changes, social and family support and healthcare services. The study also underlines the importance of implementing an intersectional minority stress model for comprehensively understanding mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth.

    Conclusion

    The results emphasize the importance of ongoing research in policy alterations, accessibility to healthcare, and creating supportive surroundings to tackle differences in mental health. Recognizing the complexity of these issues, this paper requires an in-depth examination that considers intersecting factors, promotes inclusivity, and involves long-term studies in providing mental health support to enhance the well-being of LGBTQ+ young individuals.

    Author Contributions
    Received May 04, 2024     Accepted May 09, 2024     Published Jun 04, 2024

    Copyright© 2024 Sunil Sneha, et al.
    License
    Creative Commons License   This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

    Competing interests

    The author states that, concerning this research article, they have no conflicting interests.

    Funding Interests:

    Citation:

    Sunil Sneha, Mohammadnezhad Masoud (2024) Mental Health Disparities Among LGBTQ+ Youth And The Strategies To Promote Their Well-Being Journal of Public Health International. - 7(2):12-24
    DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-24-5106

    Introduction

    Introduction

    The topic of mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and other non-heteronormative) has emerged as a topic of increasing scholarly inquiry and public health concern. LGBTQ+ people frequently experience various problems interrelated with their sexual orientation and gender identity 1. A few of the major intermediaries that are contributing to this disparity are victimization by peers, discrimination, social stigma, and lastly, familial rejection. Shedding light on these differences is crucial for public health and is essential to guaranteeing that LGBTQ+ youth can thrive and accomplish fulfilling lives despite extreme mental health disputes 2. Compared to their heterosexual counterparts, cisgender LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience numerous mental health conditions, for instance, suicidal ideation, stress, and anxiety. Furthermore, harassment and bullying in public spaces and educational settings can prompt feelings of social isolation and emotional distress 3. Familial rejection related to gender identity significantly contributes to mental health differences. Mental health disparities are predominantly prominent among LGBTQ+ youth who belong to ethnic backgrounds or marginalized racial groups, emphasizing the significance of early intervention 4.

    Mental health disparities are particularly severe among LGBTQ+ youth who are part of marginalized ethnic or racial backgrounds, emphasizing the value of early intervention 5. LGBTQ+ youth may encounter obstacles in accessing culturally sensitive healthcare, hindering their ability to seek help for mental health issues 6. However, despite these challenges, many adapt and benefit from supportive environments, social networks, and mental health care access 78. On the major support is the counselling and therapy which helps to improve the mental health and dealing with the discrimination. The legal protection is another support which helps to reduce the discrimination among the LGBTQ+ community.

    While past research sheds light on mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ adolescents, there remains a gap between awareness and effective interventions to improve their well-being 9. The aim of this study is to determine the emotional and physical well-being of LGBTQ+ with the help of evidence.

    Addressing knowledge gaps, the investigation contributes to developing comprehensive strategies and policies that promote the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society 10. Additionally, the research aligns with the rising social awareness of LGBTQ+ challenges, highlighting the increasing demand for evidence-based interventions.

    Results

    Results

    In line with the study aim that was identifying mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth and the strategies to promote their well-being, five themes were identified including Policy changes and legal frameworks, Contextual and cultural factors, Family and social support, Underlying factors of mental health, and Healthcare services access as explained below.

    Policy Changes and Legal Frameworks

    A number of six studies were included in this theme which was derived from the analysis of the objectives. Themes have been generated by systematically reviewing literature associated with LGBTQ+ youth’s mental health disparities, assessing articles elaborating discussing policy changes, anti-discrimination measures and legal reforms.

    According to 15 the struggle for the protection and recognition of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) rights has been an arduous as well as long journey, characterized by the tribulations and triumphs. In recent decades, there has been a growing global awareness of the necessity for securing equal protections and rights for LGBT individuals.

    14 conducted a scoping review on gender and sexual diversity in Thailand for researching on LGBTQ+ exclusion, discrimination and policy responses which are found fragmented and limited. Policy proposals shifted from tighter LGBTQ+ antidiscrimination regulations to boosting the quality and scope of LGBTQ+ healthcare. Legalizing same-sex marriage, enabling people to adjust gender codes on identity papers, specifically mentioning LGBT Q+ individuals within laws protecting sexual assault/rape, and enhancing data collecting on LGBTQ + populations were some the specific concepts. 8 found specific prevention interventions and strategies that emphasize on developing spaces for LGBTQ+ youth, expanding a sense of acceptance and support within families, schools and healthcare settings while lowering experiences of stigmatization and victimization based on sexual orientation and gender identity.8 wrote about some recommendations for school counsellors in order to prepare the school for aiding LGBTQ+ students.

    Contextual and Cultural Factors

    Total three studies deemed appropriate for this theme which has been generated from identifying cultural and contextual factors that lead to mental health disparities among the LGBTQ+ youths in the existing pool of literature. According to 15 LGBTQ+ young adults confront gender policing, structural stigma, and anti-LGBTQ+ religious messages related to their mental health. This paper has demonstrated the significance of an intersectional minority stress model in order to document various processes that can influence mental health inequalities. The requirement of integrating intersectionality in clinical treatments for sexual minority groups in order to enhance their psychological health is pointed out in the review by. It states that a substantial proportion of the research studies examined did not correctly represent intersecting identities, instead taking respondents into account as a single unit. A large number of interventions targeted on the connection between sexual minority verification and HIV-positive diagnosis. Only some programs entirely incorporate intersectionality into the preparation, implementation, and assessment, enabling respondents to draw on the several drawbacks in their life and respond to their specific requirements. 16 found that community engagement mechanisms that prioritize marginalized groups' viewpoints comply with the empowering notions of intersectionality.

    Family and Social Support

    This theme has also found three relevant studies from literature which was generated from the literature search on the role of social and family support in eliminating mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth. 17 in their study observed that social support, especially from families, has been detected as an integral promotive factor. The findings reveal the significance of family support for LGBTQ+ youth. Youth who are likely to lack family support, but have other types of support, showcase a decline in psychological distress along with a spike in family support throughout the stage of adolescence. On the other hand, youth who lack all forms of support are likely to showcase high distress. 17 similarly noted that youth from higher socioeconomic status are more prone to receive support from family, friends and from others. For most of the mental health outcomes, family support seems to be a specifically important and relevant source of support for targeting LGBTQ+ youth.

    Found that social support is critical for psychosocial well-being of LGBTQ+ youth. Support from diverse sources like teachers, parents, friends and classmates can have a substantial influence on the mental health and adjustment of LGBTQ+ youth 18. The authors constructed a structural equation model where three primary parcels were developed for each source of social support including classmate, parent, close friend and teacher in addition to self-esteem and depression.

    Underlying factors of mental health, and Healthcare services

    A multiplicity of factors, like social stigma, discrimination, and lack of understanding and acceptance could lead to the existence of mental health issues among young LGBTQ people. The youth from sexual minorities face increased internal discrimination, times when their friends and family do not support them, and LGBTQ+ bullying. They will end up being more responsible for mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and thoughts of committing suicide. On the other hand, 28 add that minority stress increases inequalities due to difficulties that are unique to LGBTQ+ people in a heteronormative society. Discrimination and prejudice in society, coupled with a lack of appropriate healthcare services, all disregard the needs of LGBTQ+ youth and decrease the quality of their lives. The patients can feel supported, welcomed, and seen as individuals when the care is affirming, culturally competent, and cares about their identities. One aspect of the availability of mental wellness specialists who have exclusive knowledge of the special needs of LGBTQ+ people is embodied in this. However, comfortable interaction can be developed through the provision of the info, support groups, and safe spaces dedicated to the youth belonging to the LGBTQ+ community. On the other hand, 29, stated that sex education that is all-encompassing including support for different orientations and identities with regard to gender, and implementation of anti-bullying policies by schools and communities are two factors that help to raise the emotional health of LGBTQ+ kids in school. Mental health crises can be a result of stress, burnout, and increasing instances of depression. Campaigns that normalize asking for help and advocate for open discussions on mental health issues are equally vital. The extent to which LGBTQ+ youth can enjoy a much-tolerating and promoting group can be achieved through legislation that protects LGBTQ+ rights and treats structural inequalities.

    Discussion

    Discussion

    In the wider literature, global disparities in LGBTQ+ rights are well-documented, stressing the necessity for a rights-oriented method to mental health. Legal protection and recognition are likely to contribute substantially to the well-being of sexual minorities. These findings, based on multiple studies, add to a more comprehensive perception of the challenges confronted by LGBTQ+ youth while providing in-depth insights into potential interventions.

    Policy Changes and Legal Frameworks

    Found a global perspective on the challenges confronted by LGBTQ+ individuals in terms of their rights, stressing the journey characterized by triumphs and tribulations 30. While acknowledging advancements, the authors underscore ongoing disparities, demanding a comprehensive analysis of the rights of LGBTQ+ people all over the world. This is aligned with the wider literature, which underlines the global scope of LGBTQ+ rights advocating and the demand for complete legal protections and recognition. 14 carry out a scoping examination of diversity in sexuality and gender in the multifaceted setting of Thailand. Their results reveal different policy responses, with a shift away from major antidiscrimination guidelines and towards a focus to enhance the quality and scope of LGBTQ+ healthcare. Specific policy suggestions comprise legalizing same-sex marriage, revising gender codes for identifying documents, and integrating LGBTQ+ people specifically in laws defending against rape/ sexual assault.

    Contribute by offering prevention strategies and methods aimed at developing inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ youth 8. Their emphasis on developing acceptance as well as assistance within social circles, educational institutions, and health care institutions coincides with larger studies asking for extensive support systems that minimize stigma as well as victimization 31. The value of legal frameworks for LGBTQ+ rights is well-known in the wider literature, with studies often focusing on the beneficial effect of legal recognition on mental health outcomes 2. The constantly changing nature of policy suggestions, as shown by 14 assessment, indicates a constant debate and adaptation to adapt to the LGBTQ+ community's growing demands.

    Contextual and Cultural Factors

    Schmitz 15 shed the spotlight on cultural and contextual aspects impacting LGBTQ+ young adults' mental health. The study of gender policing, institutional stigma, as well as anti-LGBTQ+ religious messages reveals the complexities of minority stressors. The implementation of an intersectional minority stress model, is vital in comprehending the interactions of several variables that lead to mental health disparities. The wider literature supports the belief that cultural and environmental factors are important in LGBTQ+ mental health. The impacts of discrimination and stigma extends beyond individual experiences to encompass institutional frameworks and cultural norms—intersectionality into therapeutic procedures, which addresses a flaw in many studies. 16 demonstrates the significance of community involvement that elevates marginalized groups' opinions, which resonates with the empowering values of intersectionality. This underscores the value of procedures that take into consideration the different challenges encountered by diverse LGBTQ+ individuals in their individual situations.

    Family and Social Support

    The findings of 17 underscore the essential function of social assistance, especially among families, in enhancing the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth. The reported reduction in psychological distress associated with higher family support throughout adolescence indicates the dynamic characteristics of support systems. Their understanding of the impact of their socioeconomic standing on support obtained parallels wider debates regarding the interrelated aspects influencing LGBTQ+ lives. 18 offer a valuable contribution by emphasizing the necessity of social support from a number of sources, including parents, teachers, friends, and classmates. Positive parental support and acceptance are linked with greater self-confidence and superior mental health, whereas peer and teacher support contributes to school safety as well as overall well-being.

    In the wider literature, the significance of family support for LGBTQ+ people is constantly demonstrated 32. The findings correspond with the wider comprehension that diverse types of support like peer, family and community extensively contribute to the mental health outcomes of LGBTQ+ people 27.

    Conclusion

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the research on mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth as well as strategies for fostering well-being underlines the necessity for intersectional and comprehensive approaches. The findings underscore the complex interplay of cultural, policy, social and healthcare factors in influencing the mental health outcomes of LGBTQ+ youth. In practice, mental health practitioners must employ culturally competent and inclusive strategies that take into consideration the particular requirements of LGBTQ+ youths. Fostering supportive environments in residential, educational, and healthcare settings is vital in decreasing the impact of victimization and stigma. Additionally, efforts need to emphasize the value of numerous types of support, like peer, familial, and community networks. On a policy level, there is an interest for sustained global attempts to ensure equal safeguards and liberties for LGBTQ+ people. Policies ought to value the quality and breadth of LGBTQ+ healthcare over antidiscrimination standards. Legalizing same-sex marriage, shifting gender codes, and enhancing data collecting on LGBTQ+ people are explicit legislative recommendations that match with the community's changing needs.

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