Mental Health Risks in LGB People
Author Information
Author(s): King Michael, Semlyen Joanna, Tai Sharon See, Killaspy Helen, Osborn David, Popelyuk Dmitri, Nazareth Irwin
Primary Institution: Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London
Hypothesis
Gay, lesbian and bisexual people have higher risks than heterosexual people of mental disorder, substance misuse and dependence, suicide, suicidal ideation and DSH.
Conclusion
LGB people are at higher risk of mental disorder, suicidal ideation, substance misuse, and deliberate self harm than heterosexual people.
Supporting Evidence
- Meta-analyses revealed a two fold excess in suicide attempts in lesbian, gay and bisexual people.
- The risk for depression and anxiety disorders was at least 1.5 times higher in LGB people.
- Alcohol and substance dependence was also 1.5 times higher in LGB individuals.
- Lesbian and bisexual women were particularly at risk of substance dependence.
- Lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts was especially high in gay and bisexual men.
Takeaway
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual people are more likely to have mental health problems and think about or attempt suicide compared to straight people.
Methodology
A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on mental disorder, substance misuse, suicide, suicidal ideation, and deliberate self harm in LGB people.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to underreporting of sexual orientation and reliance on self-identification.
Limitations
Many studies had small sample sizes and selection bias, and only one study met all quality criteria.
Participant Demographics
Data included 214,344 heterosexual and 11,971 non-heterosexual individuals aged 12 and over.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
CI 1.87, 3.28
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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