Mental Health in Queer, Trans, and Two-Spirit Communities: Why Are We More Greatly Impacted?

June 21, 2023

Queer, Trans, and Two-Spirit folks are strong and resilient. As many of us know, mental health challenges impact many folks from these and other communities. Unjustly, mental health challenges are even more prevalent in 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and this is likely due to several important reasons. Understanding why can lend therapists insights on how best to support these communities and even offer guidance to community agencies and government in how to best financially support solutions to combat this trend.

One of the key factors can be explained by a phenomenon known as minority stress theory. This theory refers to the additional stress that individuals from underserved communities experience as a result of their minority status– in this case, queer, trans and Two-Spirit individuals. These groups face a significant amount of oppression due to prejudice, discrimination, and victimization based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, and cultural identity. This oppression can take a toll on mental health and lead to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. The applications of minority stress theory are very important to understand, which we will dive deeper into, below.

One application is the lack of acceptance and support that many queer, trans and Two-Spirit individuals face. Many folks from these communities experience rejection from their un-chosen families, friends, and all throughout society, in work, school and peer settings. These experiences may all negatively impact their self-esteem and sense of belonging. This can lead especially to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can have a significant impact on one’s mental health.

Access to mental health care is another issue that affects queer, trans and Two-Spirit communities. Queer and trans individuals may face barriers in accessing mental health services, a lack of culturally-competent providers or therapists with queer-lived experience, as well as financial barriers. They may also fear discrimination or judgment from mental health providers, which can prevent them from seeking the care they need.

Read more at Qmunity.ca.