Objective: In this study, we examined how internalized homonegativity (IH), a non-adaptive cognitive response to lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) minority stressors, related to the manifestation of somatic anxiety symptoms and reduced the likelihood of being a former smoker. Methods: Participants (N = 77) smoked ≥ 100 cigarettes in their lifetime, some of whom successfully quit their use (N = 23 former smokers). The Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale and the State-Trait Inventory for Cognitive and Somatic Anxiety were used to assess IH and somatic anxiety. Results: Current smokers experienced higher IH rates than former smokers (former = 0, current = 1; b = .65, p < .05). IH was positively associated with somatic anxiety (b = .17, p < .001), and the association between IH and smoking status was mediated through somatic anxiety (b = .17; CI = [.0002, .6539]). Conclusion: One’s experience with IH may be a risk factor for psychological distress and continued smoking. Current findings can aid in the development of future longitudinal or experimental studies