Mental health challenges in the LGBTQ+ community

LGBTQ mental health is a serious concern in the U.S. and around the world. Anyone can experience mental health concerns, but those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer/questioning may face some unique challenges that impact their mental and emotional well-being. 

Fortunately, those challenges don’t have to define you. Whether you’re dealing with an unmanaged mental health condition or looking for advice on how to come out to your family, LGBTQ+-affirming therapy can help. With the right therapist, you can learn to build emotional resilience, manage your mental health symptoms, and embrace a life that’s true to you. 

Mental health challenges in the LGBTQ+ community

If you’re experiencing mental health challenges, know that you’re not alone. A report published by Mental Health America found that approximately 40% of LGBTQ+ people experienced symptoms of a mental health condition in the last year. People in the queer community are more likely than the general population to experience emotional distress, and they have an increased risk of mental health concerns like mood disorders, unhealthy substance use, and self-harm. 

These challenges are especially prevalent among LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. According to 2024 data, more than half of LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S. experience anxiety and depression, and 39% seriously considered suicide in the past year. Compared with heterosexual youth, queer young people are twice as likely to experience sadness or hopelessness — and the risk is even greater for transgender kids. 

When trying to make sense of these mental health challenges in the LGBTQ+ community, some experts refer to a phenomenon called minority stress. Minority stress refers to the fact that people in marginalized or stigmatized groups, like the LGBTQ+ community, are more likely to experience unique stressors that impact their mental and emotional health. 

Some common challenges that affect the queer community include:

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Coming out 

Hiding part of your authentic self from the people in your life can be isolating, but opening up about your sexuality orientation or gender identity may feel just as challenging — especially if you’re unsure whether you’ll be accepted and supported. One survey found that 40% of LGBT adults have been rejected by a family member or friend because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Discrimination and stigmatization

Although about 9% of the U.S. population identifies as LGBTQ+, many people continue to experience discrimination for being true to themselves. One poll found that the majority of queer adults face unfair treatment in their daily lives, like being threatened, harassed, or receiving poor service at restaurants. This can impact your self-esteem, self-worth, and sense of safety and security.

Trauma

A traumatic event is any experience that causes mental, emotional, or physical harm — like physical violence or verbal abuse. LGBTQ+ people are more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general population. They may also experience complex PTSD, which can involve feelings of shame, guilt, and hopelessness, and distrust. 

Unmet basic needs

Research shows that 40% of LGBTQ+ young people experience houselessness, food insecurity, or other unmet basic needs at some point in their lives — all of which can increase a person’s risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts* or behaviors. 

*The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support with trained crisis counselors. If you or a loved one is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, please call or text 988. If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency or you need immediate help, please call 911.

Barriers to mental healthcare for queer people

Despite less stigma surrounding both mental healthcare and LGBTQ+ issues, many people are still without the care they need. Some of the leading barriers to mental healthcare for queer people include: 

• Lack of culturally competent care: Everyone deserves a therapist who makes them feel safe, seen, and supported. That said, it’s not always easy to find someone who specializes in LGBTQ+ care.
• Medical distrust: A bad care experience may make you less likely to seek support the next time you need it. Working with a provider who used harsh language, pushed harmful practices like conversion therapy, or blamed you for your symptoms can contribute to medical mistrust. 
• Cost of care: Healthcare can be expensive, so being uninsured or having limited coverage can be a major barrier to care. Insurance doesn’t always cover gender-affirming treatments, which can be particularly challenging for transgender people and other people who experience gender dysphoria.
• Internalized stigma: If you were raised to feel ashamed of your identity or to view mental health challenges as a sign of weakness, you may be less likely to seek professional support. 
• Anti-LGBTQ policies and legislation: As of 2025, there are more than 500 proposed anti-LGBTQ bills in the U.S. Some of these laws target access to healthcare and other fundamental rights, which may influence a person’s willingness to seek care and support. 

How to access LGBTQ+ mental health support

Identifying as LGBTQ+ can pose some unique challenges, but it also has many benefits, including a strong sense of community. Having social and emotional support networks can help improve self-esteem, emotional resilience, and overall well-being. 

Your support network may include family, friends, or social networks like book clubs and exercise groups. You may also want to explore LGBTQIA+ groups and communities who can help you embrace your identity, advocate for positive change on a systemic level, and find culturally competent mental health services. 

When starting therapy, be sure to look for an LGBTQ+-friendly therapist who honors and celebrates your sexual identity, gender expression, and relationship preferences. A good therapist can help you develop the tools and strategies to cultivate self-acceptance, navigate interpersonal relationships, cope with mental health symptoms, and build the life you want.

Find care with Rula

Members of the queer community often face unique stressors that can impact their health, happiness, and quality of life. While this may feel isolating and overwhelming, having someone you trust in your corner can make a big difference. Working with a LGBTQ+-friendly therapist can help you access the resources and support you need and deserve to feel your best. 

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.

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