Why LGBTQ People Are at Higher Risk for Depression and Anxiety

LGBTQ People: Depression & Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. However, research consistently shows that LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) individuals in the United States are at a higher risk of experiencing these mood disorders compared to the general population.

As a LGBTQ affirming therapist in Chicago, I have worked with many individuals who have struggled with anxiety and depression. Just the other day, a gay male client of mine shared with me that as he exited the Paula Brown Line, he noticed his mood shifting downward.

He attributed this change due to being harassed by others riding the train who hurled names at him, simply for wearing a rainbow pride pendant on his jacket. It may be hard to believe this kind of thing still happens in our city, but (sadly) it does.

All of this is to say that individuals who search for a LGBTQ therapist in Chicago for anxiety and depression do so because of the unique issues that affect them.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the prevalence of depression and anxiety among LGBTQ people, delve into the specific causal factors, and discuss the role of therapy and medication in managing these mental health conditions.

Doesn’t Depression and Anxiety Happen To Everyone?

Depression and anxiety are mood disorders that can significantly impact a person’s emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. And yes, most people over the course of their lifetime will experience some period of depression or anxiety.

But here is what you need to know. Some people, such as LGBTQ individuals, are at higher risk for developing a mood disorder than the general population. There are many reasons for this, according to a myriad of LGBTQ focused clinical studies.

For now, let’s focus our awareness on the common symptoms associated with both of these mood challenges:

Depression & Anxiety Symptoms

1) Depression:

1. • Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
   • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
   • Fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, and difficulty concentrating.
   • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors in severe cases.

2) Anxiety:

1. • Excessive worry, fear, or unease.
   • Physical symptoms like racing heart, sweating, and trembling.
   • Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety.
   • Interference with daily functioning.

 Prevalence Among Queer People

Prevalence Among LGBTQ Individuals in the United States Studies consistently indicate that LGBTQ individuals in the United States face a higher risk of depression and anxiety:

• LGBTQ youth are nearly three times more likely to experience depression and anxiety disorders than their heterosexual peers.
• Transgender individuals are particularly vulnerable, with over 50% reporting symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Discrimination, prejudice, and social stigma contribute to these elevated rates.

Causal Factors for Depression and Anxiety Among LGBTQ Individuals Multiple factors contribute to the increased risk of depression and anxiety in the LGBTQ community:

• Stigma and Discrimination:

• • Frequent encounters with discrimination and prejudice can lead to chronic stress and emotional distress.
  • Microaggressions, hate crimes, and exclusion from family or social networks all contribute.

• Social Isolation:

• • Rejection by family and friends can lead to social isolation, which increases the risk of depression and anxiety.

• Internalized Stigma:

• • Some LGBTQ individuals may internalize the negative messages they receive from society, leading to self-loathing and mental health issues.

• Minority Stress:

• • Unique stressors experienced by LGBTQ individuals due to their sexual orientation or gender identity can accumulate over time, exacerbating mental health issues.

• Access to Healthcare:

• • Limited access to LGBTQ-affirming healthcare providers can result in unmet mental health needs.

Therapy’s Role in Managing Depression and Anxiety

Therapy is a critical component of managing depression and anxiety, and it can be particularly beneficial for LGBTQ individuals. It offers a safe and supportive space to explore feelings, develop coping strategies, and improve overall well-being.

Here are some common therapeutic approaches:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

• • Helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
  • Develops coping strategies and behavioral interventions.
  • Learn new skills for reducing negative thinking. [Learn about our Chicago CBT services here]

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):

• • Focuses on accepting negative emotions and moving forward with one’s values.
  • Leans into a strength based approach.
  • Teaches new ways of thinking about life. [Learn about our ACT therapy services here].

• Supportive Therapy:

• • Provides a safe space to discuss challenges, experiences, and emotional distress.
  • Helps you to assess ways of increasing your circle of support.

Medication for Mood Disorders

Medication can be an essential component of treatment, particularly for severe or persistent depression and anxiety. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage. Common medications for mood disorders include:

• Antidepressants:

• • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac and Zoloft are often prescribed.
  • Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) like Cymbalta can also be effective.

• Anti-Anxiety Medications:

• • Benzodiazepines such as Xanax and Ativan may be prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety.

• Mood Stabilizers:

• • These are sometimes used for individuals with bipolar disorders who experience both depressive and manic episodes.

Wrap Up

In conclusion, LGBTQ individuals in the United States face a higher risk of depression and anxiety due to a range of causal factors, including discrimination, social isolation, and internalized stigma.

Therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals manage these conditions, and medication can be beneficial in severe cases. However, it’s essential to consult with mental health professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to each individual’s needs and circumstances.

References:

Velez, B., Zelaya, D., Scheer, J. (2021). Context Matters: Minority Stress and Mental Health Experiences of Diverse LGBTQ People. In: Nadal, K.L., Scharrón-del Río, M.R. (eds) Queer Psychology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-74146-4_6