Experiences of exclusion can have a significant impact on an individual's mental health and spiritual engagement, particularly for those who identify as queer believers. Queer believers are individuals who hold religious or spiritual beliefs that may be challenging to reconcile with their sexual orientation or gender identity. These individuals may face discrimination, rejection, and marginalization from both their faith community and wider society, which can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. This can also contribute to a loss of trust in the institutional structures that were once seen as supportive, leading to increased self-doubt, mistrust, and even estrangement from one's own belief system.
Experiences of inclusion and acceptance within both religious and secular spaces can have positive effects on mental health and wellbeing.
Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ people who experience greater levels of social support from family members, friends, and communities tend to report higher levels of overall happiness and lower rates of depression and anxiety.
Those who feel connected to a larger community of like-minded individuals often report feeling less isolated and more hopeful about the future.
Navigating these experiences of exclusion and inclusion is not always straightforward. Some queer believers may find themselves caught between two worlds, struggling to balance their faith and identity in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. This can create tension, confusion, and internal conflict, leading to further emotional distress. Others may choose to leave their faith altogether, feeling unable to reconcile their identities with the teachings of their religion.
It is important for queer believers to be able to access safe spaces where they can explore their spirituality and engage in practices that bring them comfort and joy. This could include attending inclusive churches or synagogues, participating in online spiritual communities, or seeking out counseling and therapy to work through any trauma or pain associated with past experiences of rejection. It is also essential for allies and advocates to create welcoming environments where all individuals are valued and affirmed, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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How do experiences of exclusion influence mental health outcomes and spiritual engagement in queer believers?
Queer believers are more likely to experience various forms of exclusion due to their sexual orientation and religious beliefs compared to their heterosexual counterparts. This can lead to negative impacts on mental health outcomes, including increased anxiety, depression, and self-harm. Additionally, exclusion can also affect spiritual engagement by reducing feelings of belonging and connection with one's faith community.