LGBTQIA
Mental health disorders have been a concern across different groups of people over the years. The LGBTQIA is one of the significantly affected population in matters of mental health. Various factors are considered as being responsible for increasing the risk among this population. As Nami.org (2020) highlights, LGB adults are twice likely to experience a mental health condition than heterosexual adults. Further, transgender people are four times more likely to develop a mental health condition than cisgender individuals (Nami.org, 2020). Indeed, mental health is a population health issue among the LGBTQIA. As such, an analysis of the problem is required. The discussion in this paper focuses on evaluating mental health disparities among the LGBTQIA population. Background of the issue will be provided, and epidemiological analysis. The HP 2020 goals and objectives will be identified and related to the health concerns of the LGBTQIA population. Lastly, population-level planning interventions are included. It is essential to analyze the health issue as it will promote an understanding of interventions that could promote overall health outcomes.
Overview, Background, and Significance of the Problem
The LGBTQIA population encompasses people of all religions, ethnicity, races, and social classes (Healthypeople.gov, 2020). The population has been adversely impacted when it comes to access to health services. Further, the population faces health disparities due to a lack of data from both state and national surveys. As a result, it is difficult to estimate LGBTQIA individuals and categorize their health needs. The health disparities faced by individuals are associated with discrimination. In turn, Healthypeople.gov (2020) reports that there are high rates of substance abuse, mental health disorders, and suicide cases among the LGBTQIA population. There has been a consensus among health care professionals that research is required to understand and address the environmental factors that contribute to health disparities in the LGBTQIA community.
According to Healthypeople.gov (2020), mental health disparities among LGBTQIA individuals are linked to social stigma, denial of civil and human rights, and discrimination. More so, the LGBTQIA population has significant violence and victimization experiences, which have long-term adverse effects on individuals and the community. For instance, the personal, familial, and social acceptance of gender identity and sexual orientation impacts the personal safety and mental health of an LGBTQIA individual. As such, acceptance levels act as a risk factor for mental health disparities. Eliminating the health disparities and risk factors I essential in improving the overall health of the LGBTQIA population. The Williams Institute (2019) estimates that California has 5.3% of individuals identified as being LGBTQIA. Nationally, the percentage is estimated at 4.5%. Such indicates that the percentage in the state of California is higher than the national estimate. The gender ratio is 42%for males and 58% for females, while the national average age of LGBTQIA individuals is 37.3 years (The Williams Institute, 2019).
Epidemiological Analysis
According to the CDC, epidemiology studies the determinants and distribution of a health-related issue or event in a population. The LGBTQIA population is distributed across all races and religions. In terms of race and ethnicity, the data reported is 58% for White, 21% Latino, 12% Black, 5% for mixed races, 2% Asian, and 1% each for native Hawaiian and American Indian natives. The distribution and prevalence of mental health disorders associated with LGBTQIA relate to individuals across different backgrounds and ethnicities. According to Nami.org (2020), LGBTQIA individuals are more than twice likely to have a mental health disorder than heterosexuals. Such shows the prevalence of mental health problems among the population. Further, the prevalence of disorders leads to individuals considering attempting suicide. For instance, transgender persons are ranked highest among people who have considered attempting suicide with 30.8%. The statistics for bisexual, heterosexual, and gay or lesbian are 7.4%, 2.3%, and 4.4%, respectively (The Williams Institute, 2019).
Some various characteristics and factors lead to the LGBTQIA community being identified as a risk population. First, there are negative perceptions that relate to different sexual orientations. As such, a lack of acceptance acts as a risk factor for developing a mental health condition. Moreover, the population faces discrimination in housing, employment, and access to insurance. For individuals who are in school, there are no policies or laws that protect them against bullying. Overall, LGBTQIA individuals are exposed to environments where they adopt behaviors like alcohol and substance abuse. As a result, they develop suicidal thoughts, a symptom of mental health issues.
Application of Healthy People 2020
Healthy people’s (HP) 2020 primary goal concerning LGBTQIA individuals involves improving their health, safety, and well-being. Such involves; eliminating disparities, achieving health equity, and attaining quality life free of preventable diseases. The HP 2020 has various objectives that relate to the mental health problem identified. The first objective is to increase data systems that identify LGBTQIA individuals. Indeed, it would allow the collection of data and help understand health issues affecting the population. Another objective is increasing the number of states that include questions that identify sexual orientation in surveys. In turn, there would be an accurate estimate of the LGBTQIA community.
One of the screening methods for mental health disorders is the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV). Screening guidelines dictate that a method should be acceptable to a population and not cause labeling (O’Connell, Warner & Boa, 2009). Lack of labeling ensures that the involved individuals are not stigmatized. Indeed, the method would be essential in the screening of mental health disorders among the LGBTQIA population. The screening method has an internal consistency of between 0.78 to 0.97, meaning it has high validity. Although the method can be applied across all age groups, it is best suited for younger adults.
Population-Level Planning Interventions
The CDC provides various interventions that can be applied to mental disorders among the LGBTQIA population. The interventions a dynamic, and they require the inputs of parents and school administrators. Within the school setting, administrators should enforce policies that encourage respect for diversity (Cdc.gov, 2017). In turn, it would reduce cases of bullying and violence against the risk population. Another intervention is the use of safe spaces where individuals can receive support from teachers, staff, and counselors. The school should also provide training to staff regarding equality and the creation of safe environments.
Additionally, parents and relatives play a key role in providing support for the LGBTQIA population. Such can be done by staying involved in an individual’s well-being and overall health (Cdc.gov, 2017). Moreover, talking and listening to individuals is identified as an intervention that could help prevent mental health issues. Parents and relatives should also be proactive and utilize technology to learn how they can help affected individuals. As Cdc.gov (2017) highlights, positive parenting practices like having honest and open conversations help mitigate risks associated with mental health disorders. Furthermore, LGBTQIA individuals feel that they are accepted regardless of their sexual orientation. Tracking the progress of intervention should be done regularly to measure effectiveness. Such can be done through the use of survey questions.
References
Cdc.gov. (2017). LGBT Youth | Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Health | CDC. Retrieved 17 November 2020, from https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth.htm
Healthypeople.gov. (2020). Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Health | Healthy People 2020. Retrieved from https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-health
Nami.org. (2020). LGBTQI | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. Retrieved 17 November 2020, from https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions/LGBTQI
O’Connell, M., Warner, K., & Boa, T. (2009). Preventing Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Disorders Among Young People: Progress and Possibilities. Washington (DC): National Academies Press.
The Williams Institute. (2019). LGBT Data and Demographic. Retrieved 17 November 2020, from https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/visualization/lgbt-stats/?topic=LGBT#density