The Identification: Social Factors affecting Mental Well-Being of LGBTQ+ Individuals an Integrative Review

Abstract

Individuals identifying as Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ), often face stigma and discrimination. This social opposition significantly affect their mental health condition in comparison with cis-gender and heterosexual people. The study aims to investigate and describe the social factors which challenges the LGBTQ community mental health. An integrated literature review conducted with the integration of different methodologies which explored various viewpoints on the mental health issues of LGBTQ individuals. The paper is conducted by using reviewed empirical studies published after 2000 from databases like Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO and E-Journals and emphasize on Meyer’s Minority Stress Model by using it as a theoretical framework. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people are found to encounter increased mental health challenges including, psychological distress, stigmatization, discrimination and family rejection is also a vital factor contributing to mental or psychological disturbance. The findings indicate that stigma and family rejection contribute to increase the risks of mental distress as well as suicidal ideation. A clear majority of studies reported that both external and internal stressors increase the risks of negative mental health consequences among LGBTQ people. Conversely, supportive environments and community connectedness contribute to better psychological health. This review paper underscores the importance of community connectedness and supportive environment tailored to LGBTQ individual’s mental health. Future findings are needed to investigate the psychological health challenges of LGBTQ individuals in different cultures as well as different age groups.