The United States Military is one of the largest employers in the world. As such, it attracts individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. Among these people are those who identify as LGBTQ+.
Despite recent efforts to create a more inclusive environment for this community, they still face discrimination within the ranks due to their gender identity and/or sexual orientation. This has led to an increase in mental health issues among LGBTQ+ service members which can lead to poor performance on the job if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many ways that social support systems have been created specifically for them which help improve both physical and emotional wellbeing. The most effective forms of social support for LGBTQ+ service members navigating traditional military cultures include access to mental health services, peer groups, online communities, and family involvement.
Access to Mental Health Services
One way that the US Military is trying to address this issue is through providing better access to mental health resources for LGBTQ+ individuals. According to research published in the Journal of Homosexuality, mental health problems like depression or anxiety are significantly higher in the LGBTQ+ population than in heterosexuals (Fox & Finkenauer, 2017).
The authors found that gay men and lesbians experience increased rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following traumatic events related to being outed or experiencing harassment because of their sexual orientation while serving (Fox & Finkenauer, 2017). As such, it is important for all branches of the Armed Forces to offer comprehensive mental health care options as part of regular medical coverage plans so that LGBTQ+ members feel comfortable seeking assistance without fear of judgment or discrimination from colleagues or superiors.
These programs should be available at various levels of deployment and on base to ensure equal access regardless of location or duty station assignment.
Peer Groups
Peer group support can also play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for LGBTQ+ service members dealing with discrimination within their unit or even outside of it.
Many units have created social clubs where members can come together regularly to discuss issues relevant to them as well as share experiences they may not feel comfortable talking about elsewhere due to stigma associated with homophobia/transphobia/sexism/etcetera. These clubs serve two purposes: one is providing emotional relief through shared experiences; another is creating bonds between people who understand what it's like living under traditional military culture which might make someone feel more isolated otherwise. In addition, some bases also host annual pride parades/events specifically geared towards recognizing contributions made by those who identify as queer/non-binary/gender fluid et al., thereby helping create an environment where everyone feels accepted regardless of identity expression(s).
Online Communities
Online communities are another great way for individuals belonging to any gender identity or sexual orientation to connect with others going through similar experiences while serving abroad or stateside (Fox & Finkenauer, 2017). Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc., provide a safe space where users can share stories without fear of repercussions from employers since most policies prohibit harassment based upon characteristics like race/ethnicity/age/religion/etcetera (DoD Directive 5230).
These online spaces allow individuals access 24/7 regardless if deployed overseas since internet connections become available nearly everywhere today thanks advances in technology! This means that no matter where you're stationed, there will always be somewhere nearby where you can find support groups specific to your needs as an LGBTQ+ service member navigating traditional military cultures.
Family Involvement
Family involvement plays a critical role in supporting LGBTQ+ members during their time spent serving abroad and back home again once discharged (Fox & Finkenauer, 2017). Families play a vital role in providing emotional support throughout deployments, so it is important they understand what kind of pressures come along with being part of this community too; otherwise, misunderstandings may occur which lead to further stress levels rising due to lack of communication between family members versus those who identify differently than themself(ves).
Many units have begun offering family counseling services geared towards helping spouses cope better should something unexpected happen related to deployment or post-deployment life transitions when returning home after years away from loved ones due to operational requirements.
Providing adequate resources for all branches of the Armed Forces promotes greater acceptance among everyone involved while encouraging healthier relationships overall.
What forms of social support are most effective for LGBT service members navigating traditional military cultures?
Research suggests that emotional support from family members, peers, and allies can be helpful for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating traditional military cultures, as they may provide validation and encouragement in times of uncertainty or discrimination. Additionally, peer networks and online communities such as OutServe-SLDN and Military Partners & Families Coalition offer opportunities for social interaction and networking with others who share similar experiences.