Did you know that individuals who identify as LGBT have higher rates of both mental and physical health problems? Due to the experience of unique, and chronic stressors that manifest in their social environment they are at an increased risk of developing negative health outcomes (Meyer, 2003). As a result, compared to straight (or heterosexual) adults, they are more likely to be obese, have higher rates of heart diseases, and have increased risk of high blood pressure (Jackson, Agenor, Johnson, Austin, & Kawachi, 2016). LGBT adults are also more likely to experience sleep disturbances which can further exacerbate stress and negative health outcomes (Galinsky, Ward, Joestl, & Dahlmer, 2018). Some behaviors that may be linked to the identified health disparities include, but are not limited to, increased rates of nicotine and alcohol use (CDC, 2019). As a result, this population of adults requires an integrated approach to health addressing both mental and physical health concerns. Culturally sensitive and affirmative care, that places emphasis on health behavior, can improve the quality of life for the LGBT population.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, November 25). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons and tobacco use. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/disparities/lgbt/index.htm
Galinsky, A.M., Ward, B.W., Joestl, S.S. & Dahlhamer, J.M. (2018). Sleep duration, sleep quality, and sexual orientation: Finding from the 2013-2015 National Health Interview
Jackson, C.l., Agenor, A., Johnson, D.A., Austin, S.B., & Kawachi, I. (2016). Sexual orientation identify
disparities in health behaviors, outcomes, and services use among men and women in the United States: A cross-sectional study. BMC Public health, 16, 1-11. doi: 10.1186/s12889-016-3467-1
Meyer, I.H. (2003). Prejudice, social stress, and mental health in lesbian, gay and bisexual populations: Conceptual issues and research evidence. Psychological Bulletin, 19(5), 674-697.