Many individuals in the community experience mental health issues due to discrimination, shame, and fear.
Demographics:
4.5 percent of U.S. adult population identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender
Women (5.1%) are more likely to identify as LGBT than men (3.5%)
Research finds that LGBTQ+ individuals face health disparities linked to societal stigma, discrimination, and denial of human rights
Discrimination against this community has been associated with higher rates of mental health disorders, substance abuse, and suicide
Attitudes:
Majority of LGBTQ+ people say that they or another LGBTQ+ member has been threatened or nonsexually harassed (57%)
51% have been sexually harassed
51% have experienced violence due to their sexuality and gender identity
59% of LGBTQ+ feel that their are less job opportunities
50% believe they are paid less than non LGBTQ+
38% of transgender people say they have experienced slurs
28% have experienced insensitive or offensive comments
22% of transgender people say they have avoided doctors or healthcare in fear they would be discriminated against
Prevalence:
LGBTQ+ teens are 6x more likely to experience symptoms of depression
LGBTQ+ are more than 2x as likely to feel suicidal
4x as likely to attempt suicide
48% of transgender adults reported that they have considered suicide
Mental health resources:
It is important for people in this community to seek help from resources that directly help this targeted demographic these are some resources for help:
These are just some of the statistics that only summarize the hardships the LGBTQ+ community faces. It is important to educate about these hardships and just as important to know the resources for help with these issues.