The Impact of Supportive Family Relationships on Mental Health Among LGBTQ+ Individuals
LGBTQ+ individuals commonly experience discrimination, prejudice, and harassment in various aspects of their lives, including at school, work, and within their families. This social stigma can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and low self-esteem, contributing to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals who have strong family support are less likely to experience mental health challenges than their peers who do not receive such support. By practicing respect and empathy with all people, especially those who identify as LGBTQ+, you can have a significant impact on their mental health.
Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Individuals
The family unit ideally serves as a sanctuary where individuals can seek refuge from the world’s cruelty and find love and acceptance. Unfortunately, this is not the case for many LGBTQ+ individuals. Although some families go as far as cutting off or disowning their LGBTQ+ family members, many times the lack of acceptance is much more subtle, but it can still be extremely hurtful.
Rejection from family members can stem from discomfort, misunderstanding, or even a fear of saying the wrong thing. It can lead to feelings of abandonment, loneliness, and alienation, exacerbating existing mental health struggles and increasing the risk of suicidal ideation and behavior.
LGBTQ+ Mental Health Statistics
The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) shared the following LBGTQ+ mental health statistics:
40 percent of LGBTQ+ adults have been rejected by a family member or friend because of their sexual orientation
86 percent of LGBTQ+ youth reported being harassed at school
Gay, lesbian, and bisexual high school students reported that they felt sad or hopeless more than twice as frequently as their heterosexual peers, and were five times more likely to have attempted suicide.
These statistics paint a sobering picture of the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals. However, family members who are supportive and love unconditionally can provide a vital lifeline for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating the complexities of their mental health.
The Significance of Supportive Relationships
Supportive relationships play a crucial role in safeguarding the mental well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. These bonds offer a safe space where individuals can be themselves without fear of judgment. Whether it’s the understanding of a close friend or the love of a supportive parent or sibling, these relationships provide comfort, validation, and strength.
A recent study from The University of Texas at Austin found that gay youth who had perceived parental social support had fewer depressive symptoms than those who did not. In this study, parental social support was measured by youth who answered “yes” to statements such as, “My parents show they are proud of me”, “my parents help me practice my activities”, and, “My parents tell me I did a good job when I do something well”. This supportive home environment can help youth develop positive self-esteem and build resilience.
What Does It Look Like to Support Your LGBTQ+ Loved Ones?
Some individuals who have recently come out as LGBTQ find that their families are unsure how to respond or support them, even though they want to. The LGBTQ individual themself may not know exactly how to guide their family to support them, since they are still navigating many changes themselves.
A survey from The Trevor Project found that the top 5 behaviors (in order of greatest importance first) helped LGBTQ youth feel supported by their parents or caregivers:
Families are welcoming to their LGBTQ friends or partners
Families talked with them respectfully about their LGBTQ identity
Families used their name and pronouns correctly
Families supported their gender expression
Families educated themselves about LGBTQ people and issues
As you can see, these behaviors are all rooted in respect and empathy. When you are unsure how to support your LGBTQ+ loved one, you can start by identifying whether or not your behavior towards them is respectful and empathetic. If it seems appropriate in your relationship, ask for their insight on how you can best support them as they explore their own gender identity.
As you learn more about the challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals face, you can put your love and concern into action by advocating to eliminate discrimination within the community and your own family. Some examples of simple actions that you can take include:
Speak up when you hear someone make an anti-LGBTQ+ comment or joke
Include partners or spouses of LGBTQ+ individuals in social events, just as you would for any other friend’s significant other
Speak openly about your LGBTQ+ friends or family members and the issues they face
Integrate inclusive language into your daily life
Take genuine interest in asking your LGBTQ+ friends and loved ones about their lives
How Can I Be an Ally if My Values Are Different From Someone Else?
Some people are unsure how to support LGBTQ+ individuals without compromising their own values or beliefs. Listening to the experiences and perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals with empathy and an open mind can deepen understanding and help you identify ways you can be an ally.
You may not agree on every topic, but you can start by finding common ground and taking action from there. Over time, you can examine your own beliefs and determine if there are any adjustments you may make to be more inclusive and loving. A therapist with a deep understanding of family relationships and the issues that affect LGBTQ+ individuals can help you walk through your own emotions while still fully supporting your LGBTQ+ loved ones.
Cultivating Environments of Inclusivity
In our roles as allies, we must have empathy, understanding, and actionable commitment. By cultivating environments of inclusivity and affirmation, we can create spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals feel empowered to embrace their authentic selves and seek the assistance they require.
For those wrestling with conflicting beliefs or seeking additional guidance, it’s important to recognize that support is readily available. At Maslowe Psychological Services, we are here to help you navigate any complexities that you experience while supporting your LGBTQ+ loved ones. If you are ready to schedule your first appointment or if you have any questions, please connect with us. We look forward to meeting you!