A Scar in Each of Us: LGBTQ+ College Student Well-Being in Texas During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to highlight the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, access to care, housing, education, employment, and food security among LGBTQ+ college students in Texas. An online survey was distributed during the Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 semesters. Inequalities were examined across outcomes based on age, ethnicity, and income. A qualitative analysis of narrative responses was also completed. Significant impacts were noted during the pandemic across all factors studied. Self-perceived mental health was particularly affected, including measures of depression, sleep disturbance, anxiety, anger, personality functioning, and suicidal ideation. Age, race/ethnicity, and income were associated with significant differences in housing, food security, employment, and access to mental healthcare. Four major themes arose from the narrative responses which focused on instability, educational challenges, mental health implications, and resilience and coping strategies. The unique geographic and political factors in Texas during this time are also discussed as exacerbating factors. As public health entities prepare to better care for vulnerable populations, this study identifies multiple factors where change is needed to improve overall health in LGBTQ+ college students.