LGBTQIA+

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community often face unique challenges, such as social stigma, related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. At Elevate Medical, the team of Yung Park, MD, Kevin Lemaire, DO, Sima Paul, MD, and Lesley Cano, PMHNP-BC, provide online therapy and support from their New York City office. Call the Midtown Manhattan practice today or use the online tool to schedule your telehealth appointment. 

How does being LGBTQIA+ impact mental health?

LGBTQIA+ includes the following population groups: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and more.

Discrimination, prejudice, and social stigma related to sexual orientation and gender identity can create significant barriers to mental well-being. 

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community may experience rejection or hostility from family members, peers, or society at large, leading to feelings of isolation, shame, and internalized homophobia or transphobia.

The constant threat of discrimination and violence, both interpersonal and systemic, can contribute to chronic stress, anxiety, and hypervigilance among LGBTQIA+ patients. 

Fear of rejection or harm may lead some people to conceal their sexual orientation or gender identity, resulting in a sense of disconnection from their authentic selves and strained relationships with others.

Cultural insensitivity, lack of knowledge about LGBTQIA+ issues, and discriminatory practices within the health care system can deter people from seeking help or result in inadequate care when they do. 

Elevate Medical is different. The providers welcome LGBTQIA+ patients and aim to help them thrive when it comes to mental health. 

Do specific mental health concerns affect LGBTQIA+ people?

As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, you’re more likely to experience mental health disparities compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Common concerns include:

• Gender dysphoria
• Minority stress
• Internalized homophobia or transphobia
• Trauma related to experiences of discrimination or violence

As a result of these factors, LGBTQIA+ individuals are at increased risk for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. 

What symptoms suggest an LGBTQIA+ person should seek therapy?

Your mental health concerns show up in many ways. You may struggle with:

• Not fitting in or getting bullied
• Anxiety
• Constant sadness, worry, or fear
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Feeling worthless or hopeless about the future
• Weight fluctuations and appetite changes
• Mood swings
• Sleep disruptions
• Low self-esteem
• Substance abuse
• Fatigue or physical aches and pains

You may notice that your relationships start to suffer or that you struggle with tasks at work and school. 

How can therapy help LGBTQIA+ people with their mental health?

Elevate Medical provides a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ people to explore their identities, address internalized shame or stigma, and develop coping strategies for managing stressors related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

The therapy team offers support, validation, and guidance tailored to the individual's needs.

Call Elevate Medical in Midtown Manhattan today or use the online tool to get started with therapy to support your mental health.