What is systemic discrimination?
Systemic discrimination refers to institutionalized prejudice and exclusion based on sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, or intersex status that affects individuals throughout their lives, including during childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging. It occurs when societal institutions such as education systems, legal systems, employment opportunities, housing markets, healthcare providers, and social services are unequal or unfair towards LGBTQ people. This includes policies and practices that create barriers for LGBTQ people to access basic needs such as healthcare, housing, education, and employment, which can lead to long-term physical and mental health effects.
Physical Health Effects
One of the most significant physical health impacts of systemic discrimination against LGBTQ communities is higher rates of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that LGBTQ individuals experience higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to heterosexual and cisgender populations. This is likely due to the constant stress and stigma associated with living in an environment where they may face daily discrimination, harassment, and violence.
Many LGBTQ individuals experience fear and uncertainty regarding their future healthcare needs, leading to increased cortisol levels, a hormone linked to stress response. Higher levels of cortisol can increase blood pressure, suppress immune function, and worsen heart disease risk factors over time.
Another physical health effect is poor self-rated health. A study found that 37% of transgender adults reported experiencing poor health within the past year, compared to 16% of cisgender individuals. This is likely because transgender individuals often face difficulties accessing adequate healthcare, including gender-affirming medical care, resulting in delays in diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. They also report experiencing more chronic pain and lower quality of life than cisgender individuals.
Mental Health Effects
Systemic discrimination also leads to negative psychological outcomes such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A recent study found that almost half of all LGBTQ youth experienced PTSD at some point during their lives, which is significantly higher than non-LGBTQ peers. The study found that this was most commonly attributed to experiences of bullying, violence, and discrimination. These traumas can lead to long-term emotional distress, making it challenging for individuals to maintain relationships, participate in social activities, or succeed academically.
Systemic discrimination has been linked to substance abuse among LGBTQ populations.
Research shows that LGBTQ youth are three times more likely to use drugs than their heterosexual counterparts. LGBTQ adults also have higher rates of binge drinking, drug use, and other addictions than the general population. This may be due to a need to cope with stressful environments caused by discrimination and stigma.
Systemic discrimination against LGBTQ communities causes significant physical and mental health effects that impact them throughout their lifespan. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policies and programs that promote equality and inclusion. It includes ensuring access to appropriate and affirmative healthcare, education, employment opportunities, housing, and support services for LGBTQ individuals and families.
Educating society about the detrimental effects of discrimination on individual and public health is necessary.
What are the long-term physical and mental health effects of systemic discrimination against LGBTQ communities?
Discrimination against LGBTQ communities can have significant long-term physical and mental health effects. Research has shown that discrimination can lead to increased stress levels, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also contribute to poorer overall health outcomes such as higher rates of substance abuse, smoking, and risk behaviors related to sexual health.