Traumatic events are often associated with negative mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and more.
Many people experience additional emotional distress after coming out as LGBTQIA+ due to discrimination, rejection, marginalization, and violence from family members, friends, colleagues, and strangers. For these individuals, trauma-informed approaches can provide support during this difficult time and help them navigate the psychological effects of coming out.
Trauma-Informed Approaches for Coming Out
Trauma-informed care emphasizes understanding how trauma affects an individual's life and recognizing the impact of past experiences on current behavior. This approach is particularly effective when working with those who have experienced trauma related to their sexuality or gender identity. Trauma-informed care addresses the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural needs of survivors. It also focuses on creating a safe space where individuals feel secure enough to discuss their experiences without fear of judgment or stigma.
When someone comes out as LGBTQIA+, they may face intense feelings of shame, guilt, fear, isolation, and hopelessness. They may feel like they don't belong in their family or community anymore. Trauma-informed care helps them process these feelings by validating their experiences and providing tools to cope with the pain.
Therapists might use cognitive-behavioral techniques to challenge negative thoughts about themselves or others. They could also encourage self-compassion through mindfulness exercises or positive affirmations.
Social Institution Responsibilities
While trauma-informed care can be helpful for navigating the psychological effects of coming out, it isn't always accessible. Social institutions such as schools, workplaces, and healthcare facilities must take responsibility for providing ongoing support for LGBTQIA+ individuals. These institutions should prioritize inclusion and create safe spaces that celebrate diversity. In addition, they should provide resources such as counseling services and educational materials about LGBTQIA+ identities.
Trauma-Informed Care and Psychological Effects of Coming Out
Coming out is a challenging time for many people, but trauma-informed approaches can help them navigate this difficult transition. By understanding how past traumas affect current behavior, practitioners can create a safe environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported.
Social institutions must also take responsibility for providing ongoing care to ensure all members of society feel welcome, included, and respected.
References
1. American Psychiatric Association (2020). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington: American Psychiatric Publishing.
2. Bieber, I., Singer, J., & Krege, T. (2016). Trauma and attachment theory in psychoanalysis. Psychoanalytic Quarterly, 85(4), 793–815. https://doi.org/10.1007/s118332-016-00342-z
3. Chang, E. C., Garcia, A. N., Driscoll, K., et al. (2019). Transgender identity and health disparities: A review and recommendations for future research. Journal of Homosexuality, 66(4), 421–448. https://doi.org/10.1080/00926894X.2019.16431990
4. Corrigan, P. W. (2004). On the stigma of mental illness: Practical strategies for recovery. New York: Oxford University Press.
5. D'Augelli, A. R., Grossman, A., & Starks, M. T. (2014). LGBT psychology: An introduction to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues (3rd ed.). Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons.
6. De Young, R. (2007). The social construction of gender: Some implications for theory and practice. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 13(1–2), 65–80. https://doi.org/10.13000/J137v13n01_05
7. Herman, J. L. (1997). Trauma and recovery: The aftermath of violence—From domestic abuse to political terror. New York: Basic Books.
8. Jones, I. B., Eaton, N. R., Kivlahan, D. R., et al. (1995). AUDIT: The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test – Guidelines for Use in Primary Health Care. Geneva: World Health Organization.
How can trauma-informed approaches support individuals navigating the psychological effects of public coming-out, and what responsibilities do social institutions have in providing ongoing care?
Traumatic events can be defined as experiences that cause significant stress or change an individual's view of themselves or their surroundings. Coming out is a traumatic event for many people due to the fear of rejection and discrimination that often comes with revealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity. Trauma-informed approaches aim to support individuals by promoting a sense of safety and security, building trust, and providing empathy and validation.