LGBTQ+ Community & Their Healthcare Needs

Mental Health Exam 2

How does the World Health Organization (WHO) define sexual health?

A state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality.

What does the term LGBTQ+ stand for?

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer. The + stands for the fact the list isn’t all inclusive and the terms may vary between different communities

What are the Social Determinants of Health?

Nonmedical factors influencing health risks and outcomes, including healthcare access and quality, education access and quality, economic stability, neighborhood and built environment within the neighborhoods, social and community context.

What are some important issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community in healthcare?

Lack of familial support, social isolation/marginalization, direct or indirect discrimination (workplace, healthcare setting, housing). Also violence from lay people, police, and healthcare providers. .

What are examples of health disparities experienced by the LGBTQ+ community?

Mental illness, suicide, substance use/misuse, and HIV/STIs.

What causes health disparities in the LGBTQ+ community?

Lack of employment, health insurance, provider accessibility, and discrimination from healthcare providers/staff, high-risk behaviors , lack of data and research

What is gender dysphoria?

person experiences discomfort because their biological sex at birth is contrary to the gender they identify with. A diagnosis is necessary to receive medical intervention for gender transition.

What is the role of healthcare providers in helping the LGBTQ+ community?

Be respectful, use chosen names and pronouns, advocate, and educate themselves.

What resources can healthcare providers refer to for supporting LGBTQ+ individuals?

WPATH, KSU LGBTQ Resource Center, and local support groups.

What specific mental illnesses do people of the LGBTQ+ community experience?

depression/anxiety, suicide (trans), substance use/misuse, low self-image and self-esteem

What are some examples of high risk behaviors?

sex worker, multiple partners, drug dealer, IV drug use, alcohol and other substance, victims of violence

What healthcare do individuals that identify as trans may pursue?

medical interventions to help alleviate gender dysphoria (hormone replacement therapy or surgery). Not all opt for medical intervention