Submit to IJERPH Review for IJERPH Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Published Papers

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Mental Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2021) | Viewed by 46725

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Edward McCann

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Interests: psychosocial issues; mental health; social justice; health inequalities; healthcare access; service delivery;

Prof. Dr. Michael Brown

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT7 1NN, UK
Interests: psychosocial concerns; health needs; health inequalities; intellectual disabilities; access to care; service outcomes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Gráinne Donohue

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Interests: psychotherapy; psychosocial interventions; mental health care; inclusive practice

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

There is a growing and evolving body of international research evidence related to LGBTQ+ people and their healthcare needs [1]. However, less attention has been directed towards the mental health experiences and distinct care and support requirements of LGBTQ+ populations and communities in this regard. This is despite the significantly higher levels of stress, anxiety, depression, suicidality, and substance use issues evident in LGBTQ+ communities compared with the general population [2]. Some of the concerns may be attributable to stigma and discrimination experiences as well as the result of minority stress [3]. There is a need to grow and develop our understanding of the specific needs of LGBTQ+ communities and how their care and support requirements can be effectively met [4]. For this Special Issue, we welcome academic papers that utilise different research methodologies including systematic literature reviews and quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method designs. Papers should clearly focus on responding to the mental health opportunities and challenges that exist for LGBTQ+ people at various points across the lifespan.

[1] Caceres, B.A.; Travers, J.; Primiano, J.E.; Luscombe, R.E.; Dorsen, C. Provider and LGBT individuals’ perspectives on LGBT issues in long-term care: A systematic review. Gerontologist 2020, 60, e169–183.

[2] McCann, E.; Brown, M.J. The mental health needs and concerns of older people who identify as LGBTQ+: A narrative review of the international evidence. J. Adv. Nurs, 2019, 75, 3390–403.

[3] Meyer, I.H. Resilience in the study of minority stress and health of sexual and gender minorities. Psychol. Sex. Orientat. Gend. Divers. 2015, 2, 209.

[4] Goldhammer, H,; Maston, E.D.; Kissock, L.A.; Davis, J.A.; Keuroghlian, A.S. National findings from an LGBT healthcare organizational needs assessment. LGBT Health 2018, 5, 461–468.

Dr. Edward McCann
Prof. Dr. Michael Brown
Dr. Gráinne Donohue
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

gay
lesbian
bisexual
transgender
mental health
psychosocial
health needs
supports

Published Papers (11 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

27 pages, 465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Interplay between Queerness and Teacher Wellbeing: A Qualitative Study Based on Foreign Language Teacher Trainers

by Juan Ramón Guijarro-Ojeda, Raúl Ruiz-Cecilia, Manuel Jesús Cardoso-Pulido and Leopoldo Medina-Sánchez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 12208; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182212208 - 20 Nov 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2206

Abstract

Oftentimes, teachers who identify themselves as LGTBIQ+ may feel unsafe at work, which may upset their wellbeing and destabilize their key psychological traits. Hence, feelings such as insecurity, lack of self-confidence, anxiety, and fear are on loop in their everyday lives. Thus, in this study we pursued an examination of the interplay between sexual orientation and teacher wellbeing in a cohort of seven university foreign language teacher trainers in a Spanish context. To gain insight into this issue, a qualitative study in line with the ecological paradigm was designed for the elaboration of semi-structured in-depth interviews and for the analysis of results. The main findings display teacher wellbeing as a complex interwoven system in which sexual orientation had played a core role in their identities, competences, private and professional relationships, and in the cultural and political spheres. We conclude by stating that although homophobic discrimination was a hard trial to overcome, the psychosocial capital of the participants allowed them to transform this negativity into positive assets such as queer activism in their private and political lives and in their profession as foreign language teacher trainers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

16 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LGBTQ+ Psychosocial Concerns in Nursing and Midwifery Education Programmes: Qualitative Findings from a Mixed-Methods Study

by Michael Brown, Edward McCann, Gráinne Donohue, Caroline Hollins Martin and Freda McCormick

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(21), 11366; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111366 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3227

Abstract

LGBTQ+ people experience significant physical and psychosocial health issues and concerns, and encounter barriers when accessing healthcare services. We conducted a mixed-methods research study across all Schools of Nursing and Midwifery in the United Kingdom and Ireland using a survey and qualitative interviews. This was to identify the current content within nursing and midwifery pre-registration programmes in relation to LGBTQ+ health and to identity best practice and education innovation within these programmes. The survey was completed by 29 academics, with 12 selected to participate in a follow-up in-depth qualitative interview. Analysis of the data from the survey and interviews identified five themes: there is variable programme content; academics are developing their own programmes with no clear consistency; LGBTQ+ health is being linked to equality and diversity; there are barriers to education provision; and these is some evidence of best practice examples. The findings of the study support the need to develop and implement a curriculum for LGBTQ+ health in nursing and midwifery pre-registration programmes with learning aims and outcomes. Academics need support and tools to prepare and deliver LGBTQ+ health content to nurses and midwives as they ultimately have the potential to improve the experiences of LGBTQ+ people when accessing healthcare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measurement Invariance of the Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory across LGB Males and Females in Taiwan: Bifactor Structure Fits the Best

by Meng-Tsang Hsieh, Jung-Sheng Chen, Chung-Ying Lin, Cheng-Fang Yen, Mark D. Griffiths and Yu-Te Huang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(20), 10668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010668 - 12 Oct 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2255

Abstract

The present study examined the factor structure and concurrent validity of the traditional Chinese version of the Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory (SOMI) among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals in Taiwan. In total, 1000 self-identified LGB individuals completed the SOMI, HIV and Homosexuality Related Stigma Scale (HHRSS), and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ). Different factor structures (including one-factor, four-factor, bifactor, and higher-order factor structures) were evaluated using confirmatory factor analysis. The bifactor structure significantly outperformed all others on the SOMI. The bifactor structure with one general factor and four trait factors was found to be measurement invariant across biological sex with satisfactory fit indices. The SOMI general factor was significantly associated with HHRSS-Homosexuality score and AAQ score. The findings indicate that the SOMI is a psychometrically sound instrument for Taiwan sexual minority groups. More specifically, SOMI can be used to accurately assess microaggression among LGB individuals. The measure on microaggression may also provide insights for healthcare providers about LGB individuals’ sexuality-related stigma. Moreover, healthcare providers and relevant stakeholders can use the SOMI to understand how LGB individuals perceive and feel microaggression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

18 pages, 381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers and Facilitators to Promoting Resilience to HIV/AIDS: A Qualitative Study on the Lived Experiences of HIV-Positive, Racial and Ethnic Minority, Middle-Aged and Older Men Who Have Sex with Men from Ontario, Canada

by Renato M. Liboro, Sherry Bell, Brandon Ranuschio, Lianne Barnes, Jenna Despres, Aruna Sedere, Trinity Puno and Paul A. Shuper

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(15), 8084; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18158084 - 30 Jul 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2985

Abstract

Evidence-based research has highlighted the need for exploring factors that support the mental health of men who have sex with men living with HIV/AIDS (MSMLWH), and environmental influences that promote their resilience to HIV/AIDS. This exploratory study utilized a community-based participatory research approach to investigate barriers and facilitators to promoting resilience to HIV/AIDS, specifically among racial and ethnic minority, middle-aged and older MSMLWH, a population that continues to be significantly impacted by HIV/AIDS today. This collaborative, qualitative study recruited participants who identified as racial or ethnic minority MSMLWH, were aged 40 or older, and resided in Ontario, Canada. Participants (n = 24) discussed in their interviews barriers and facilitators to promoting resilience to HIV/AIDS, which they recognized from their lived experiences. Utilizing thematic analysis, themes related to barriers and facilitators to promoting resilience to HIV/AIDS were identified. Themes related to identified barriers included: (1) language proficiency, (2) racism, (3) pernicious norms in North American gay culture, and (4) HIV stigma. Themes related to identified facilitators included: (1) compartmentalization, (2) perseverance, and (3) community-based health and social services. This article discusses the implications of the study’s findings, particularly on how they may influence the development of future services for racial and ethnic minority, middle-aged and older MSMLWH. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

10 pages, 336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Family Support and Sociocultural Factors on Depression among Black and Latinx Sexual Minority Men

by Donte T. Boyd, S. Raquel Ramos, Camille R. Quinn, Kristian V. Jones, Leo Wilton and LaRon E. Nelson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 6759; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18136759 - 23 Jun 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2476

Abstract

Family-based approaches are critical for improving health outcomes in sexual minority men (SMM) of color. Yet, it is unclear how family context, internalized homophobia, and stress influence mental health outcomes among sexual minority men of color. From a cross-sectional sample of 448 participants, aged 16–24 years, survey data were analyzed to examine rates of family social support, the perception of sexuality by family, the stressfulness of life events, internalized homophobia, and other contextual variables on depression using linear regression. Our results indicated that an 86% increase in family social support was related to a −0.14 decrease in depression (ß = −0.14, p = 0.004). In addition, SMM who were separated by family and friends because of their sexuality were statistically significant and positively associated with depression (ß = 0.09, p < 0.001). Findings from our study suggest that the influence from the microsystem is salient in modifying mental health outcomes for SMM of color. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

9 pages, 323 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attitudes toward Homosexuality among Nurses in Taiwan: Effects of Survey Year and Sociodemographic Characteristics

by Huang-Chi Lin, Yi-Chun Lin, Yu-Ping Chang, Wei-Hsin Lu and Cheng-Fang Yen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3465; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073465 - 26 Mar 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2236

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the level of attitudes toward homosexuality among nurses in Taiwan between 2005 and 2017 and with various demographic characteristics, as well as the roles of demographic characteristics in the changing trend of attitudes toward homosexuality between 2005 and 2017. This survey study recruited nurses from three hospitals in 2005 (Survey 2005, N = 1176) and 2017 (Survey 2017, N = 1519). Participants’ four dimensions of attitudes toward homosexuality, including condemnation, immorality, avoiding contact, and stereotypes, were assessed using the Taiwanese version of the Attitudes Toward Homosexuality Questionnaire. The results demonstrated that nurses in 2017 exhibited lower levels of avoiding contact with lesbian and gay patients and stereotypes toward homosexuality but higher levels of condemnation of gay and lesbian individuals and perceptions of gay and lesbian individuals as immoral than did nurses in 2005. Age moderated changes in some dimensions of attitudes toward homosexuality from 2005 to 2017. The need to develop training programs aimed at improving not only the quality of nursing skills but also their negative attitudes regarding homosexuality is urgent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

10 pages, 694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perception of Attitudes of the General Population toward Homosexuality in Taiwan: Roles of Demographic Factors, Mental Health, and Social Debates on Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage

by Huang-Chi Lin, Yi-Lung Chen, Nai-Ying Ko, Yu-Ping Chang, Wei-Hsin Lu and Cheng-Fang Yen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(5), 2618; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052618 - 5 Mar 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5771

Abstract

The aims of this online survey study were to examine the associations of demographic characteristics (gender, age, and sexual orientation), mental health status, and point in time of the survey (i.e., the beginning of the social debates on legalizing same-sex marriage vs. the end of the social debates) with people’s perception of the attitudes of the general population in Taiwan toward homosexuality. A two-wave internet survey was conducted using Facebook to gather information regarding people’s perception of the population’s attitudes toward homosexuality among 4562 participants. The five-item Brief Symptom Rating Scale was used for assessing mental health status. The results indicated that participants perceived the population as having a lower acceptance at the end of the social debates on legalizing same-sex marriage than at the beginning of the social debates; gender moderated the decline in perceived acceptance. The results also indicated that poor mental health and heterosexual orientation were significantly associated with a lower perception of the population’s homosexuality acceptance in both waves of the survey. The factors related to perceived homosexuality acceptance need to be considered in developing programs to increase the population’s homosexuality acceptance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

50 pages, 2817 KiB

Open AccessReview

Protective Factors for LGBTI+ Youth Wellbeing: A Scoping Review Underpinned by Recognition Theory

by Nerilee Ceatha, Aaron C. C. Koay, Conor Buggy, Oscar James, Louise Tully, Marta Bustillo and Des Crowley

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(21), 11682; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111682 - 7 Nov 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 8293

Abstract

Considerable research has been undertaken regarding the mental health inequalities experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI+) youth as a consequence of societal and individual prejudice, stigma and discrimination. Far less research has focussed on protective factors that promote wellbeing for this population. A scoping review was conducted using a six-stage methodological framework, and is reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR statement. This explored the extent, range and nature of the peer-reviewed, published, academic literature on what is known about the protective factors that promote LGBTI+ youth wellbeing. Six databases were systematically searched applying Population–Concept–Context key inclusion criteria, complemented by contact with authors to identify additional sources, reference checks and hand searches. Ninety-six individual research records were identified and analysed, drawing from Honneth’s Recognition Theory. Interpersonal relations with parents (n = 40), peers (n = 32) and providers (n = 22) were associated with indicators of enhanced wellbeing, as were LGBTI+ community relations (n = 32). Importantly, online (n = 10), faith (n = 10) and cultural (n = 5) communities were potentially protective. Content and thematic analysis highlighted the importance of Gay–Straight Alliances (GSAs) (n = 23) offering powerful protective opportunities through intersecting interpersonal, community and legal forms of recognition. GSAs enhance allyship by peers and providers (n = 21), facilitate access to LGBTI+ community networks (n = 11) and co-exist alongside inclusive policies (n = 12), curricular (n = 5) and extracurricular activities (n = 1). This scoping review underscores the need to move beyond the predominant focus on risk factors for LGBTI+ youth, which subsequently inform protectionist approaches. It concludes with an appeal to develop mechanisms to apply recognitive justice to policy, practice and, importantly, future research directions. This emphasises the salience of enhanced understandings of inclusion, which is rights-based, universally available and of potential benefit to all. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1690 KiB

Open AccessReview

Views and Experiences of LGBTQ+ People in Prison Regarding Their Psychosocial Needs: A Systematic Review of the Qualitative Research Evidence

by Gráinne Donohue, Edward McCann and Michael Brown

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(17), 9335; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18179335 - 3 Sep 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5862

Abstract

People who identify as LGBTQ+ and are in prison often experience many additional challenges. Once in prison, there is systemic discrimination against imprisoned LGBTQ+ people and a lack of understanding and concern regarding their care, treatment and support needs. While there is growing interest in their protection and that of other vulnerable populations in prison settings, little is known about their views and experiences regarding their distinct psychosocial needs. The aim of this systematic review is to critically evaluate and synthesize the existing research evidence relating to the unique psychological and social experiences of LGBTQ+ people in prison and identify aspects that may help or hinder access to appropriate psychosocial interventions and supports. The PRISMA procedure was utilized. A search of relevant databases from January 2010 to March 2021 was undertaken. Studies were identified that involved LGBTQ+ people, and addressed their views and experiences regarding their psychosocial needs whilst in prison. The search yielded 858 papers in total. Following the application of rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria a total of 12 papers were considered suitable for the systematic review. Quality was assessed using the CASP instrument. Following analysis, three themes were identified: (i) interpersonal factors (ii) intrapersonal factors and (iii) institutional factors. The policy, education and practice development implications are highlighted and discussed. Future research opportunities have been identified that will add significantly to the body of evidence that may further the development of appropriate health interventions and supports specific to the LGBTQ+ population in prison. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

28 pages, 737 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Scoping Review Investigating Relationships between Depression, Anxiety, and the PrEP Care Continuum in the United States

by Sarah J. Miller, Sayward E. Harrison and Kamla Sanasi-Bhola

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(21), 11431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111431 - 30 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3017

Abstract

Men who have sex with men and transgender women in the United States are at increased risk for HIV and may benefit from pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a once-a-day pill to prevent HIV. Due to stigma and discrimination, sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations are also at risk for depression and anxiety. This scoping review sought to identify literature addressing relationships between the PrEP care continuum, depression, and anxiety among SGM individuals and others at high risk for HIV. We conducted a systematic review of four databases (i.e., PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Google Scholar) and identified 692 unique articles that were screened for inclusion criteria, with 51 articles meeting the final inclusion criteria. Data were extracted for key study criteria (e.g., geographic location, participant demographics, study design, main findings). Results suggest that while depression and anxiety are not associated with PrEP awareness or willingness to use, they can be barriers to seeking care and to PrEP adherence. However, empirical studies show that taking PrEP is associated with reductions in anxiety. Findings suggest the need to implement mental health screenings in PrEP clinical care. In addition, addressing systemic and structural issues that contribute to mental health disorders, as well as PrEP-related barriers, is critical. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 917 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Experiences and Perceptions of Trans and Gender Non-Binary People Regarding Their Psychosocial Support Needs: A Systematic Review of the Qualitative Research Evidence

by Edward McCann, Gráinne Donohue and Michael Brown

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3403; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073403 - 25 Mar 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6538

Abstract

People who identify as trans and gender non-binary experience many challenges in their lives and more interest is being paid to their overall health and wellbeing. However, little is known about their experiences and perceptions regarding their distinct psychosocial needs. The aim of this systematic review is to critically evaluate and synthesize the existing research evidence relating to the unique psychological and social experiences of trans people and identify aspects that may help or hinder access to appropriate psychosocial interventions and supports. The PRISMA procedure was utilized. A search of relevant databases from January 2010 to January 2021 was undertaken. Studies were identified that involved trans people, and addressed issues related to their psychosocial needs. The search yielded 954 papers in total. Following the application of rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria a total of 18 papers were considered suitable for the systematic review. Quality was assessed using the MMAT instrument. Following analysis, four themes were identified: (i) stigma, discrimination and marginalization (ii) trans affirmative experiences (iii) formal and informal supports, and (iv) healthcare access. The policy, education and practice development implications are highlighted and discussed. Future research opportunities have been identified that will add significantly to the body of evidence that may further the development of appropriate health interventions and supports to this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Mental Health Opportunities and Challenges across LGBTQ+ Communities

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (11 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI