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Improving the health well-being of LGBTQQIP2SAA people

Improving the health well-being of LGBTQQIP2SAA people

Improving the health well-being of LGBTQQIP2SAA people

LGBTQQIP2SAA health is the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the queer community. This community features people with a wide range of sexual and gender-diverse identities. 

These individuals face common and unique barriers in our society. For example, they may be hesitant to access healthcare services due to stigma and discrimination. As a result, they may encounter adverse physical and mental health outcomes. In addition, the LGBTQQIP2SAA community is at a higher risk for experiencing violence and discrimination.

This article will provide ways for promoting the health and well-being of LGBTQQIP2SAA folks and discuss some of the common barriers that this community faces. 

Dispelling Common Myths about the LGBTQQIP2SAA Community 

To better support the LGBTQQIP2SAA Community, it is essential to recognize and dispel preconceived ideas and stereotypes. Here are some common myths about LGBTQ+ people: 

Myth: Some LGBTQQIP2SAA people can be identified by their mannerisms and the way they dress.

The truth: There are stereotypes about how LGBTQ+ are supposed to look and act. For example, the effeminate gay man and the masculine lesbian are some of the most common. However, identities and orientations are diverse, and gender expression does not define a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. As a result, we cannot rely on people’s appearances or mannerisms. 

Myth: LGBTQ+ people need help and need mental health treatment because they’re sick.

The truth: This myth comes from the search for causes of being LGBTQ+. For instance, some people equate that a past event, like a traumatic childhood experience, could disrupt their development. The search for causes is problematic because it associates sexual diversity with having a condition. The cause of being LGBTQ+ is not important, and being LGBTQ+ is not an illness. In essence, LGBTQ+ people do not need treatment for their identity. 

Myth: LGBTQQIP2SAA people are hypersexual and engage in risky sexual activity. 

The truth: There is a misconception that the LGBTQ+ community are promiscuous, have many partners, high promiscuity, and more. In essence, gender identity and sexual orientation do not correlate with certain defined sexual behaviors.

Myth: All LGBTQ+ people should be receiving psychological and mental health help. 

The truth: It would be incorrect to assume that all LGBTQ+ people are experiencing psychological or mental health issues. Some people with an LGBTQ+ identity may have more difficulties, but some may have a positive experience and not require mental health care for LGBTQ+-related issues.

In addition, having an LGBTQ+ identity is not a problem in itself. Instead, the isolation, stigmatization, discrimination, homophobia, or transphobia experienced from others can be difficult, and why someone would want to seek therapy or mental health help. 

What are some LGBTQQIP2SAA Health Disparities? 

Over the past 10 years, LGBTQ+ people have made excellent strides in winning and securing equal rights. For example, fifteen states and Washington, D.C. provide same-sex couples with some of the same rights afforded to heterosexual married couples. In addition, more states have nondiscrimination protections based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or both. 

Also, polls show that the general public is becoming more positive regarding their views of LGBTQ+ people. In essence, LGBTQ+ people are finally being recognized and seen as people that deserve equal access to basic human rights and opportunities. 

However, even though there has been much progress, LGBTQ+ people continually experience worse health outcomes than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. 

In addition, people who are LGBTQ+ and part of a racial group will often experience the highest level of health disparities. For example, according to the National Coalition for LGBT Health, a black gay man will experience disparities common to the Black community and those suffered by the LGBTQ+ community.

What are the Most Common Sources of LGBTQQIP2SAA Health Disparities?

Adverse health outcomes for LGBTQQIP2SAA people are mainly due to many different factors; here are some of the most common examples: 

  • Lack of health insurance due to reduced access to employer-provided health insurance 
  • The social stigma against LGBTQQIP2SAA people 
  • Lack of competent care in the healthcare system 
  • Promoting the health and well-being of LGBTQQIP2SAA people

Here are some suggestions that can help improve the health and well-being of LGBTQQIP2SAA people: 

Social support and inclusive environments: One essential factor for improving the health of LGBTQ+ people is providing protective factors against the harmful impacts of discrimination that LGBTQ+ people face. One way to do so is through the support of parents or caregivers. Having support and acceptance from parents or caregivers can lower the negative impacts of homophobia and transphobia on young people. 

However, it is essential to note that after coming out, some youth will be verbally and psychologically abused by their parents or caregivers. If it is not safe to come out to parents or caregivers, then the support of friends and other adults in their social circle can positively benefit the health of LGBTQ+ people. 

More training and educational information on LGBTQ+ issues for healthcare students and professionals:  There needs to be better cultural competency training for medical and nursing students and other healthcare professionals. Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, or other facilities must have their staff participate in a rigorous LGBTQ+ cultural competency training program for its professional and nonprofessional staff.

Passing more bills regarding LGBTQ+ health: Working to pass more bills to improve health care benefits for LGBTQ+ people needs to be a priority. House and Senate leadership should work to ensure these bills are coming out of Congress and work to protect against discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community.

Takeaway

The tips outlined throughout this article can help with LGBTQ+ health and wellness. If you are looking to speak with an LGBTQ+-friendly mental health professional, be sure to navigate our database at LGBTQ and ALL.

You can also promote your mental health practice if you specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals. Sign up for our database today

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