Minority stress, perceived social support, and depression in people diverse in sexual and gender minority status

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study examines the relationships between experienced heterosexism, perceived social support, and depression in people diverse in sexual and gender minority (SGM) identity. The cross-sectional online study was performed in Poland among 509 SGM people, with an average age of 22 years (M = 22.39, SD = 4.78). Minority stress was assessed using the Daily Heterosexist Experiences Questionnaire (DHEQ), perceived social support was measured by the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and depression symptoms were evaluated using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale – Revised (CESD-R). The study supported a buffering effect of social support from family and friends in the relationship between minority stress and depression symptoms. Network analysis (NA) showed that minority stress from family of origin, mediated by low family support, plays a key and bridging role in increasing suicidal ideation, especially in dual SGM individuals. Friends are the most important source of support for people with a single SGM identity. Therefore, to prevent suicidal thoughts in LGBTQ+ people at increased risk of depression, systemic therapy should be used in addition to interventions focusing on coping with minority stress and symptoms of depression.