Research suggests that people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning are more likely to experience mental health issues than their heterosexual peers.
Research has found that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, substance abuse problems, self-harm, and suicide attempts than cisgender and straight peers. Some factors that may contribute to this increased risk include discrimination, isolation, harassment, stigma, and marginalization.
The exact reasons for these disparities remain unclear. One potential explanation is that many LGBTQ+ individuals develop coping mechanisms to deal with chronic social exclusion, which can have long-term effects on their well-being. These coping strategies range from avoidance and denial to resilience and empowerment. In this essay, I will explore some of the most common coping mechanisms seen in LGBTQ+ populations and how they affect adult well-being.
One commonly observed coping mechanism among LGBTQ+ individuals is avoidance. This involves actively trying to hide one's sexual orientation or gender identity in order to fit in with societal norms and expectations.
A gay man may avoid public displays of affection or refrain from joining gay communities in order to blend into society. Similarly, a trans person may try to pass as cisgender by presenting themselves in accordance with gender stereotypes. While this strategy may help alleviate feelings of rejection and vulnerability, it also comes at a cost. Avoidance can lead to psychological distress, such as guilt, shame, and low self-esteem, as well as physical health concerns like weight gain or sleep deprivation.
Another common coping mechanism is denial. This involves suppressing or ignoring one's true feelings in an attempt to maintain social acceptance.
Someone who identifies as bisexual but feels pressure to choose a side (either straight or gay) might feel conflicted about their identity and end up rejecting their own desires. Denial can be particularly harmful because it prevents people from accessing support systems and resources that could help them better understand and cope with their experiences. It also increases the risk of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Resilience is another form of coping that can emerge in LGBTQ+ populations subjected to chronic social exclusion. This involves developing a strong sense of self-worth and resiliency despite external pressures. Resilient individuals may have greater control over their emotions and behaviors, which helps them to maintain positive relationships and social connections even in hostile environments. Research suggests that resilience is linked to improved mental health outcomes, including lower levels of depression and anxiety, higher life satisfaction, and increased quality of life.
Resilience alone does not guarantee good mental health; other factors, such as access to supportive communities and safe spaces, are equally important.
Empowerment is a more active form of coping that involves challenging societal norms and expectations. Rather than conforming to societal rules, empowered individuals seek to change them by advocating for equal rights and representation. They recognize that they have agency in creating a more inclusive society and work towards that goal through political action and community organizing. Empowerment has been associated with improved psychological well-being, including reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, higher self-esteem, and greater feelings of personal effectiveness.
LGBTQ+ populations face unique challenges when it comes to coping with chronic social exclusion. Some individuals may turn to avoidance or denial to fit into mainstream society, while others develop resilience or seek empowerment. Regardless of the specific approach taken, these coping mechanisms can have long-term effects on adult well-being. It is important that we create supportive environments where everyone can feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment or stigma. By doing so, we can help to ensure that all members of our communities have the opportunity to thrive and live their best lives.