There has been growing attention to the mental health impact of discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning, nonbinary, agender, aromantic, pansexual, polyamorous, and asexual people. This is due to increasing awareness that LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges when it comes to psychological well-being because they are often rejected by society for their identity.
One aspect that has received less consideration is how this rejection can lead to long-term psychological effects, such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, and even physical illness. In this article, I will explore what long-term psychological effects arise from institutional and social rejection in queer believers and suggest possible solutions.
Section How institutional and social rejection affects queer believers
Institutional and social rejection can take many forms, including bullying, name-calling, violence, and exclusion. These experiences can have profound impacts on the mental health of queer believers, who may feel alienated, stigmatized, and isolated. As a result, they may experience a range of negative emotions, including shame, guilt, embarrassment, anger, sadness, anxiety, fear, and hopelessness.
These feelings can lead to chronic stress, which can weaken the immune system, increase inflammation, and raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and other conditions.
Marginalized communities tend to be more prone to substance abuse, addiction, eating disorders, and self-harming behaviors, which can further worsen their physical and mental health.
Section The consequences of institutional and social rejection on queer believers' relationships
Institutional and social rejection can lead to difficulties with intimacy, trust, and communication in romantic and sexual relationships.
Individuals who have experienced discrimination are more likely to report lower levels of satisfaction in their current relationship and greater distrust in future partners. They may also struggle with communication due to fear or avoidance of discussing sexual orientation/gender identity or perceived lack of support from family/friends. This can create tension, mistrust, and resentment within relationships, ultimately leading to conflict, breakups, and even domestic violence.
Section Strategies for managing institutional and social rejection as a queer believer
One way to manage institutional and social rejection is by building resilience. Resilience refers to an individual's ability to adapt positively to adversity, including developing coping skills, seeking social support, practicing mindfulness, setting boundaries, and engaging in positive activities. Queer believers can cultivate resilience through therapy, support groups, spiritual practices, hobbies, volunteering, exercise, and other stress-reducing techniques.
They can seek out affirmative spaces where they feel welcomed, safe, and valued. These include online communities, religious organizations, LGBTQ+ centers, ally-friendly businesses, and other resources that promote acceptance and belonging.
What long-term psychological effects arise from institutional and social rejection in queer believers?
Research shows that LGBTQ+ individuals who experience religious and/or social discrimination may be at higher risk of developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to a study by Pew Research Center, about 25% of American adults identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or another sexual orientation other than heterosexual.