The Struggles LGBTQ Adults and Youth Face
Many LGBTQ individuals have access to accepting communities, support systems and public representation today. However, there is still much work to be done, especially when it comes to issues affecting LGBTQ adults and youth. According to The Trevor Project, LGBTQ youth are over four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers. 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered making a suicide attempt during the past year. In early 2022, the U.S. Census Bureau indicated that LGBT adults 18 and older report twice the rate of mental health challenges compared to non-LGBT adults. These statistics are staggering, but they also encourage active awareness. When we know and understand the problems LGBTQ adults and youth face, we can work to solve them.
The Struggles LGBTQ Adults and Youth Face
Social Isolation and Rejection
Everyone wants to feel accepted by their loved ones and the community at large. We want to feel like we belong, and that we can be exactly who we are without shame. LGBTQ adults and youth often come out and share their sexual orientation/gender identity with others. This can be especially daunting if they’ve already experienced feelings of shame or rejection previously. Many peers accept and encourage their LGBTQ friends, letting them know that they’re supported and loved. Coming out in an unsupportive or hostile environment, however, can be dangerous. Even in our modern society, heterosexuality and binary experiences are viewed as “the norm,” whereas LGBTQ individuals are perceived as something “other.” Furthermore, Unfortunately, this can result in increased social isolation and rejection. This can lead to heightened mental health risks over time.
Discrimination
If you’re not a part of the LGBTQ community or another marginalized group, you probably have access to stable employment, reliable health care and acceptance in religious communities. LGBTQ adults and youth are often barred from certain experiences just for being themselves. In a survey conducted by CMI, 97% of gay and bi men and 99% of lesbians reported that discrimination was their top concern while traveling. 21% of trans travelers said they were nervous about invasive security checks and discrimination while traveling. Traveling is an everyday experience that many take for granted or don’t think twice about. It is not uncommon for LGBT adults and youth, on the other hand, to feel the burden of even the smallest daily tasks.
Harassment and Violence
LGBT adults and youth are often threatened physically due to their identity. A staggering 70% of LGBTQIA+ members have reported being sexually harassed at work. 66% were afraid to say anything or report the abuse. Having a constant fear of violence (whether it is sexual, physical or verbal) can lead to increased anxiety and feelings of hopelessness. In many cases, those who antagonize LGBTQ individuals are championed by their peers. Laughing at anti-LGBTQ jokes or remaining silent when someone is harassed only contributes to violence. As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Supporting LGBT adults and youth involves refusing to participate in jokes like these and making your voice heard.
Partner with Lead4Life, Inc. Today to Learn More about The Struggles LGBTQ Adults and Youth Face
At Lead4Life, we strive to empower every participant in our programs so that they may find their purpose, achieve their goals, and become poised, productive members of their community. We advocate for those in need and assist every individual by providing compassionate education and valuable resources like mental health tips so that they can make the very best decisions and develop important life, social, and competency skills. Visit our website to learn more about the struggles of LGBTQ adults and youth or contact us at 240-499-8949.
