Mental health problems such as depression or self-harm can affect anyone, but they're more common among people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBTI+).
This may be linked to LGBTI+ people's experience of discrimination, homophobia or transphobia, bullying, social isolation, or rejection because of their sexuality.
Other things, such as their age, religion, where they live, and their ethnicity can add extra complications to an already difficult situation.
Sexual identity and orientation
Sexual identity and sexual orientation are part of what makes you who you are. Sexual orientation is your sexual preference for people of the same sex, the opposite sex, or both.
Sexual identity is the label that you might use to let others know who you are as a sexual being. For example, a person may see themselves as a man, a woman or neither (non-binary) regardless of their sex.
Coming out
'Coming out' is the term used by LGBTI+ people to describe their experience of discovery, self-acceptance, openness and honesty about their LGBTI+ identity.
Whoever you are, or whatever your circumstances, coming out can be a challenging time. You may be afraid that family and friends might reject you when they find out you are LGBTI+. This can put a strain on your mental health.
Many people know they are LGBTI+ for some time before they come out (decide to tell others). This can be a challenging thing to do, but a rewarding one.
Most people get a positive and supportive response from family and friends and feel happy that they made the decision to come out.
Bullying or harassment
LGBTI+ people can experience homophobic or transphobic bullying or harassment.
This type of bullying can happen anywhere, for example:
- the classroom
- the workplace
- the sports field
- at home
Being bullied can make you feel upset, threatened or humiliated. You may also feel vulnerable (that your feelings could be hurt again).
Bullying and harassment can cause physical, mental and social pain (pain from being socially excluded). It can make you feel alone, scared, angry, confused or sad. All of these things can affect your mental health.
If you experience bullying or harassment, talk to someone about it. Talk to a friend, family member, colleague, counsellor or your GP.
Relationship problems
Sometimes relationships can be a source of pressure for people. You can feel pressure to be someone you're not, or do things you're unsure about. This can put a strain on your mental health.
Working on a new relationship can make it difficult for you to find enough time for your friends and family. When you start a relationship it is important to keep working on your existing friendships and family relationships.
Relationship break-ups can also have a powerful impact on your mental health. It can bring a range of emotions.
You may feel:
- anger
- sadness
- doubts about the future
- loneliness and isolation
Break-ups can be even more difficult if you are a parent. This is because you also have to deal with the impact on your children. It can be difficult to adjust to a new situation and this can affect your mental health. It's important to get support to help you through this difficult time.
When an LGBTI+ person loses their partner, they may not get the same reaction or support.
People may fail to understand what your partner meant to you and the love you had for each other. This can make getting over a break-up more difficult for you.
Lack of support from family or friends
Some LGBTI+ people can experience a lack of support from family and friends.
This may happen when you:
- first come out
- get into a relationship
- start a family
This can be hurtful, and harmful to your mental health. Sometimes families or parents do not know how to support LGBTI+ family members. Some may need some support themselves.