Ways in Which Identifying as LGBTQ+ Affects Mental Health

Abstract

The focus of this project is investigating ways in which identifying as LBGTQ+ affects youths' mental health. The purpose of this project was exploring how identifying as LGBTQ+ affects youths' mental health. The criteria used to select the studies was using these keywords: LGBTQ+, high school, lesbian, gay, and depression. I primarily used the Eagle Search Database to locate articles. Selected articles included relevant information for this project. The participants in identified studies were youth between 14 and 17 years old who identified as LGBTQ+. The participants were chosen randomly from the academic categories of homeschooled, attending public school, and attending private school. The housing categories chosen from were homeless, living with their biological family, and living with a foster family. The three most important findings from studies used were 1. youth who identify as LGBTQ+ need support from the people who are around them 2.the stigma that LGBTQ+ youth face leads to an increased suicide rate, and 3.inclusion for LGBTQ+ youth can make a positive impact on mental health. The implication of these results was that LGBTQ+ youth need more inclusion and understanding from the people around them (teachers, peers, parents, and community members). This is important because it creates a foundation on which we can use to lower suicide rates among youth who identify as LGBTQ+ and be allies to things we have yet to understand.