LGBT+ individuals continue to face significant challenges when accessing healthcare, with high rates of mental health struggles and discrimination in medical settings. Findings in LGBT in Britain – Health Report, based on YouGov research with 5,000 LGBT+ people across England, Scotland, and Wales, highlight widespread disparities in healthcare experiences and well-being.
Key Findings
Over half (52%) of LGBT+ individuals reported experiencing depression in the past year.
One in eight (13%) LGBT+ individuals aged 18-24 attempted suicide within the last year.
Nearly half (46%) of trans individuals have considered suicide, compared to 31% of LGB people who are not trans.
Self-harm rates are highest among non-binary individuals (41%), followed by 20% of LGBT+ women and 12% of GBT men.
One in six (16%) LGBT+ individuals reported drinking alcohol almost daily over the past year.
Among young adults (18-24), one in eight (13%) used drugs at least once a month.
Discrimination in Healthcare Settings
The report also highlights significant barriers LGBT+ individuals face when seeking medical care:
One in seven (14%) avoid healthcare services due to fear of discrimination.
One in eight (13%) have faced unequal treatment from healthcare staff because of their LGBT+ identity.
Nearly one in four (23%) have witnessed healthcare professionals making negative or discriminatory remarks about LGBT+ people.
Among trans individuals, 20% have personally witnessed such remarks in the past year.
One in twenty (5%) have been pressured to access services aimed at questioning or changing their sexual orientation.
One in five (19%) LGBT+ individuals are not open about their sexual orientation when receiving general medical care. This number is significantly higher for bi men (40%) and bi women (29%).
Personal Accounts: The Reality of LGBT+ Healthcare
Many LGBT+ individuals shared distressing experiences, illustrating the deep-rooted discrimination they face within healthcare systems.
Elijah, 19 (South East): "After a suicide attempt, I was sectioned, and a nurse told me my mental health struggles were due to 'allowing Satan into my soul.' They said that if I accepted my true gender, God would forgive me."
Rosemary, 70 (Wales): "I'm being treated for depression, partly because I can’t access any LGBT+ senior groups within 80 miles of where I live. If there were one, I’d be actively involved. Instead, I feel isolated."
The Urgent Need for Change
These findings highlight the urgent need for inclusive healthcare policies, better training for medical professionals, and improved support systems for LGBT+ individuals. Without systemic reforms, many will continue to face unnecessary barriers, leading to poorer health outcomes and increased mental distress.
Mary Watson
