Workshop: Addressing the mental health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender populations

Abstract

Abstract Today a large number of studies from different parts of the world clearly show that compared with heterosexuals lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals have an increased risk of mental health problems, especially depression, anxiety and suicidal behaviour. To meet this increased risk of mental health problems, many governmental public health agencies call for policy and intervention programs addressing specific needs of LGBT individuals. Despite the clear need for evidence-based care, prevention, and treatment specifically tailored to LGBTQ people, there are currently few such programmes due to lack of sufficient research. This workshop will give examples of studies on mental health care needs among LGBT individuals and effect of evidence-based training for mental health providers, as well as, studies showing improvements of mental health after treatments. Dr. Corina Lelutiu-Weinberger (Rutgers University, USA) will present results from a newly conducted study of LGBT-affirmative mental health training for health care providers in Romania. Dr. John Pachankis (Yale University, USA), will present results showing improvements in mental health among transgender individuals after receiving gender-affirmative surgical treatment, using a total population dataset from Sweden. Dr. Igor Grabovac (Medical University of Vienna, Austria) will present health and well-being disparities based on sexual orientation among older LGBT individuals in England. The situation for LGBT individuals varies greatly across Europe. The level of acceptance for minority sexual orientations differs greatly by country, and in many countries, LGBT people are also subject to legal discrimination concerning basic civil rights, e.g. regarding recognition of same-sex unions. During the workshop, Dr. Richard Bränström (Karolinska Institutet, Sweden) will present data on experiences of discrimination in health care settings and openness with sexual and gender identity to mental health providers among LGBT populations across all 28 European Union Countries. Key messages Today a large number of studies from different parts of the world clearly show that compared to heterosexuals LGBT individuals have an increased risk of mental health problems. Access to supportive mental health care for LGBT individuals varies greatly across Europe and dissemination of targeted LGBT-affirmative evidence-based interventions needed.