Experience of Existential Isolation and Loneliness in LGBTQ++

Abstract

Existential isolation, a strong feeling of being alone in one’s subjective experience, and loneliness, a feeling of disconnect between looked for and real social relationships, are major psychological difficulties for LGBTQ+ people. The combination of minority stress, social exclusion, and structural prejudice contributes to these feelings, leading to negative mental health outcomes as despair, anxiety, and suicidality. This review investigates the causes, effects, and potential solutions for existential isolation and loneliness among LGBTQ+ people. This study explores current literature to demonstrate how institutional injustice, social support, and internalized stigma enhance feelings of loneliness. It also investigates intersectionality, demonstrating how ethnicity, gender identity, and financial class all influence how emotions of loneliness manifest. The study additionally points out areas of need in existing literature, highlighting a need for more empirical research using a variety of approaches to better understand and treat persons in these circumstances. Research indicates the policies of inclusion, treatments that are supportive of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities and support networks of community and digital, can provide some protection against loneliness and existential isolation. Long term outcomes, cultural competence, and the role of digital spaces in the formation of connection should be the focus of future research. These gaps are important and will help to improve the awareness of mental health for LGBTQ+ people and improve their overall wellbeing.