Mental health disparities persist for LGBTQ+ college students nationwide, largest study of its kind finds
LGBTQ+ college students who experience discrimination are significantly more likely to experience depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts and to avoid needed health care, according to a new national study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, Boston University School of Public Health and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute. The findings underscore the impact of…
A monumental study examining the mental health of LGBTQ+ college students nationwide has revealed persistent disparities stemming from discrimination. Conducted by Columbia University, Boston University, and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, the research, published in the journal Behavioral Medicine, analyzed responses from nearly 18,000 LGBTQ+ students across 119 colleges and universities in 34 states, making it the largest study of its kind.
Discrimination significantly increased students' risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. One in ten LGBTQ+ students reported campus-based discrimination, which raised their likelihood of depression by 84%, anxiety by 87%, and suicidal ideation by 78% compared to those who did not experience discrimination. Students denied health care faced an even grimmer outlook, with a more than 200% higher risk of suicidal thoughts.
The study underscores the detrimental impact of discrimination on student well-being during a critical life stage. Coming of age in an era marked by heightened political debate over LGBTQ+ rights, the findings emphasize the urgent need for colleges to address discrimination to support student mental health and ensure equitable access to care.
Addressing these disparities through improved training for clinicians and campus providers, and continued investment in LGBTQ+ health research, is essential for fostering a healthier future for this vulnerable population.
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