When individuals experience discrimination for their sexual orientation, they may resort to keeping it a secret. This can lead to negative effects on cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Research has shown that secrecy is associated with increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social isolation. It also affects identity development and social connectedness. Some strategies to cope with this are seeking support from friends and family, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in positive self-talk.
Experiencing Discrimination
People who identify as LGBTQ+ often face discrimination in various areas of life such as work, education, healthcare, and housing. This can include verbal abuse, physical violence, and exclusion from social events. In response to this, some individuals may choose to keep their sexuality private to avoid stigma and prejudice. This secrecy can have detrimental consequences on mental health.
Cognitive Consequences
Keeping one's sexual orientation a secret requires constant monitoring and control of behavior and language. This can lead to a state of hypervigilance where people are constantly scanning their environment for signs of potential danger or disapproval. This can result in feelings of distrust, paranoia, and mistrust. It can also cause difficulties with memory, decision making, and problem solving.
Emotional Consequences
Secretly expressing one's sexual orientation can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, fear, and loneliness. These emotions can be overwhelming and interfere with everyday functioning. They can also contribute to negative thinking patterns such as rumination and catastrophizing. Coping mechanisms such as substance abuse and risky behaviors can develop as an attempt to escape these feelings.
Identity Development
Living in the closet can make it difficult to develop a strong sense of identity. Individuals may feel like they need to hide important parts of themselves, leading to confusion and self-doubt. This can impact relationships and interactions with others, making it challenging to form meaningful connections.
Social Isolation
Secrecy can isolate individuals from support systems that could provide acceptance and validation. Social networks become limited to those who share similar beliefs or experiences. This can create a cycle of further isolation and decreased social connectedness.
Seeking Support
Finding supportive friends, family members, or mental health professionals can help alleviate some of the negative effects of secrecy. Sharing feelings with someone trusted can reduce stress and increase resilience. Engaging in positive activities such as hobbies, exercise, or volunteering can boost mood and wellbeing.
Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being present in the moment without judgment. It can help individuals let go of negative thoughts and worries related to their sexuality. Focusing on sensations and breathing can ground them in the present moment.
Positive Self-Talk
Challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with more positive ones can improve mood and outlook. Affirmations such as "I am worthy" or "I deserve love and respect" can counteract shame and guilt. Visualizing successes and achievements can build confidence and optimism.
What are the cognitive and emotional consequences of secretly expressing one's sexual orientation in environments perceived as hostile or unaccepting?
A study by Mental Health America (MHA) found that LGBTQ+ individuals may experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness when they feel forced to hide their true selves due to a lack of acceptance from others. Additionally, suppressing one's identity can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and self-doubt, which can negatively impact mental health over time.