The Depathologization of Homosexuality

Abstract

Homosexuality is the enduring pattern of emotional, sexual and romantic attraction towards members of the same sex. We owe a deep apology to the LGBTQ community for the atrocities committed to them in the name of mental health. Members of the LGBTQ group have a high incidence of psychiatric morbidity including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal ideation and self-harm. (Kar et al., 2018). The LGBTQ group shares their apprehension towards mental health care resources. The mental health community of psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers has a crucial role to play in helping their clients and society, in general, accept variations of sexual orientation. The ‘Depathologisation of Homosexuality’ by the mental health community played a crucial role in legitimizing the LGBTQ group and their struggles worldwide.