Mental Health & LGBT

 As a result of discrimination, LGBT people are more likely to suffer mental health problems than heterosexual people, this is support by a Department of Health publication ‘reducing health inequalities for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people – briefing for health and social care staff’ published last year, which states that ‘discrimination has a negative impact on the health of LGBT people in terms of lifestyles, mental health and other risks. Although society is becoming less prejudiced and some things are changing for the better, LGBT people will never be free from discrimination, most LGBT people have experienced a range of difficulties in their lives, which can contribute to mental health problems, and these include:

• Hostility and/or rejection from family, parents and friends.
• Bullying and name-calling at school.
• Rejection by most mainstream religions.
• Dangers of violence of public places.
• Casual homophobic comments on an everyday basis.

 Experiencing these difficulties can mean many LGBT people face mental health issues including:

• Difficulty in accepting sexual orientation, leading to conflicts, denial, alcohol and drug abuse and isolation.
• Trying to keep their sexuality a secret through lying, pretending or leading a double life.
• Low self-esteem, increase in self harm and suicide attempts.
• Damaged relationships or lack of support from families.
• Post- traumatic stress disorder and depression from long-term effects of bullying.

 For more information www.nwmhft.nhs.uk