Name
Chamberlain University
NR-730: DNP Project
Prof. Name
Date
According to Moagi et al. (2021) in Mental Health Challenges of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People, one of the most critical evidence-based interventions is the provision of culturally competent mental health services that are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community. This approach acknowledges that stigma, discrimination, and the lack of inclusive healthcare resources significantly worsen existing mental health disparities within this population.
The authors emphasize the importance of training nurses and other healthcare professionals to deliver care that is not only evidence-based but also inclusive and affirming. Culturally competent care involves recognizing and addressing the particular challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals experience, including social rejection, identity-related stigma, and systemic inequalities in healthcare delivery. By fostering supportive and inclusive healthcare environments, this intervention aims to improve mental health outcomes and reduce disparities among LGBTQ+ individuals.
Research further demonstrates that LGBTQ+ adolescents, compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers, face a disproportionately higher risk of developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. The root causes of these discrepancies often stem from experiences of discrimination, bullying, rejection, and lack of social support. Thus, affirming families, inclusive schools, and supportive communities play an essential role in mitigating risks and promoting the overall well-being of LGBTQ+ youth.
In addition, Malik et al. (2023) conducted a systematic review examining the mental health disparities among homosexual men and minority groups. The findings indicate that social isolation, humiliation, and persistent discrimination contribute to an elevated prevalence of substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression within these groups. The authors conclude that targeted mental health interventions and inclusive policy reforms are critical in addressing these inequities and enhancing outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Overall, these studies collectively highlight the urgent need for inclusive policies, culturally competent practices, and supportive environments. Evidence-based interventions that affirm LGBTQ+ identities, reduce stigma, and improve access to care are essential for closing gaps in practice and ensuring equitable mental health outcomes.
| Study/Author | Focus Area | Key Findings | Implications for Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moagi et al. (2021) | Mental health challenges among LGBTQ+ individuals | Stigma, discrimination, and lack of inclusive services contribute to disparities | Culturally competent training for healthcare providers to promote inclusive care |
| School Mental Health Promotion (2016) | Creating safe environments for LGBTQ+ youth | Affirming schools and communities reduce risks of anxiety, depression, and suicide | Supportive environments are crucial for youth well-being |
| Malik et al. (2023) | Systematic review on homosexual men and minorities | High prevalence of anxiety, depression, and substance misuse due to discrimination and social isolation | Need for inclusive policies and tailored mental health interventions |
Evidence strongly suggests that mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ populations are rooted in systemic stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to inclusive resources. Effective evidence-based interventions—such as culturally competent care, affirming communities, and supportive policies—play a pivotal role in addressing these gaps. By fostering inclusive healthcare systems and safe environments, professionals can significantly reduce psychological risks and enhance the quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Creating safer environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) youth and families: Opportunities for school mental health promotion. (2016). In Mental health promotion in schools (pp. 131–155). BENTHAM SCIENCE PUBLISHERS. https://doi.org/10.2174/9781681083230116020009
Malik, M., Iqbal, S., Noman, M., Sarfraz, Z., Sarfraz, A., & Mustafa, S. (2023). Mental health disparities among homosexual men and minorities: A systematic review. American Journal of Men’s Health, 17(3), 155798832311766. https://doi.org/10.1177/15579883231176646
Moagi, M. M., Der Wath, A., Jiyane, P. M., & Rikhotso, R. S. (2021). Mental health challenges of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people: An integrated literature review. Health SA Gesondheid, 26. https://doi.org/10.4102/hsag.v26i0.1487A
