Key Takeaways
- About 32% of people who identify as LGBTQ+ or queer experience depression.
- Being LGBTQ+ isn’t a stand-alone cause of depression or other mental health concerns. But systemic challenges like stigma, discrimination, and limited access to inclusive care can contribute to high rates of depression in queer people.
- If you’re struggling with depression, working with an LGBTQ+ friendly therapist can help.
Among the LGBTQ+ population, depression is a prominent concern. Research shows that approximately 32% of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer/questioning, transgender, and other sexual minorities live with major depressive disorder (MDD), or depression. This is much higher than the rate of depression among the general population (about 5%–17%).
From discrimination and internalized negativity to barriers to healthcare and family rejection, many factors impact the mental health of LGBTQ+ people. But at the same time, this community continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. By raising awareness about why and how depression affects the queer community, you can play a role in combating stigma and helping more people access affirming, life-saving support.
Signs of depression in LGBTQ+ people
The signs of depression in LGBTQ+ people are similar to those in other populations. If you or someone you care about is demonstrating any of the following, it may be time to ask for help.
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Emotional symptoms
- Feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, or empty
- Easily irritated or frustrated
- Frequently agitated or restless
- Loss of joy or fulfillment in life
- Feeling guilty or unworthy
Physical symptoms
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Frequently fatigued or tired
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss or gain
- Changes in sexual desire or performance
Mental symptoms
- Loss of interest in activities
- Wanting to spend more time alone
- Trouble with concentration and focus
- Difficulty making decisions
- Impulsivity
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide*
*A note on safety: Members of the LGBTQ+ community are at an increased risk of suicidality. If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone. Their counselors will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe. You can also contact The Trevor Project 24/7 for LGBTQ-affirming crisis and peer support.
Why depression rates are higher in the LGBTQ+ community
Before we dive into some of the factors that contribute to higher rates of depression in the LGBTQ+ community, we need to emphasize a few important points. First, there’s no causal link between being LGBTQ+ and having poor mental health. A person’s sexual or gender identity isn’t a stand-alone cause of depression. Rather, it’s societal stigma that leads many LGBTQ+ people to struggle with their mental health.
Second, we want to acknowledge the field of psychiatry’s role in perpetuating damaging stigma against LGBTQ+ people. In the past, LGBTQ+ identities were labeled as mental health conditions in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Thanks to years of hard work by LGBTQ+ activists, the classification was removed in 1973. But the effects of living with something seen as a former disorder can still be felt today.
Collectively referred to as minority stress, the following systemic challenges contribute to higher depression rates in the queer community.
- Societal stigma: Many people in the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination, prejudice, harassment, and a denial of their human rights. They’re also one of the most at-risk groups for hate crimes in the U.S.
- Mental health care disparity: Despite the high rates of mental health concerns among LGBTQ+ people, many people may not know how to find an inclusive provider who welcomes and celebrates all identities. Knowing how to narrow your search to find the best fit can be key in receiving the support you may need.
- Trauma and abuse: Homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, bullying, and feeling identity-based shame can be traumatizing. Discrimination can also manifest as verbal, mental, and physical abuse.
- Social rejection: Approximately 40% of LGBTQ+ adults say coming out resulted in rejection from a family member or a close friend, and 86% of LGBTQ+ youth report being harassed or assaulted at school.
- Homelessness: LGBTQ+ youth and adults are 120% more likely to experience homelessness. This elevated risk is often, in part, due to the social and familial rejection they face upon coming out. Housing instability is known to have a direct impact on mental health.
- Internalized negativity: When you live in a world that promotes negative messages about your identity, you might unconsciously absorb some of them. This is called experiencing internalized homonegativity, and it’s a known risk factor for depression and suicide.
Support for queer people with depression
If you’re a member of the queer community and experiencing depression, know that you’re not alone. There are LGBTQ+ friendly therapists who understand the unique joys and challenges of queer life. They can help you unpack the ways your identities and mental health may intersect in a safe, affirming space. Together, you can work toward managing your depression through methods like mindfulness, LGBTQ+ affirmative cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other interventions.
In addition to seeking professional help, one of the best things you can do to strengthen your mental health is to spend time with people who love and accept you for who you are. Research shows that social support can mitigate the impact of discrimination, increase optimism and hope, and reduce the risk of self-harm and suicide for LGBTQ+ youth and adults.
If you don’t have someone in your life you can talk to, consider connecting with an LGBTQ+ group in your community or online. Remember, you don’t need to be in crisis to reach out. Sometimes, it can just help to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. A variety of organizations provide free, confidential resources for LGBTQ+ people of all ages across the U.S.
One commonly overlooked aspect of internalized stigma is how it can quietly intensify depression. This occurs by undermining a person’s self-worth and making it harder to seek support. This hidden burden can lead to feelings of isolation and further symptoms of depression.
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About one-third of the LGBTQ+ community lives with depression. This is due to systemic factors like stigma, difficulty accessing affirming care, trauma, and internalized negativity. Despite these challenges, the LGBTQ+ community is known for its incredible strength and resilience. So if you identify as LGBTQ+ or another sexual minority, know that help is available. An LGBTQ+ friendly therapist can help you manage your mood, increase your self-acceptance, and embrace your diverse identities.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
About the author
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
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Rula's editorial team is on a mission to make science-backed mental health insights accessible and practical for every person seeking to better understand or improve mental wellness.
Members of Rula’s clinical leadership team and other expert providers contribute to all published content, offering guidance on themes and insights based on their firsthand experience in the field. Every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by a clinician before publishing.
