The journey of young adults in the LGBTQIA+ community can be a difficult one, as they navigate not only the normal developmental challenges of early adulthood but also face additional societal and systemic barriers that can negatively impact their mental health. According to a study conducted by The Trevor Project, LGBTQIA+ youth are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation compared to their heterosexual peers. In that same study it was also found that transgender youth are at the highest risk, with 35% reporting attempting suicide in their lifetime, and in a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that LGBTQIA+ youth contemplate suicide at almost three times the rate of heterosexual youth.
Challenges Faced by Young Adults in the LGBTQIA+ Community
The process of coming out and self-identification can be difficult for young adults in the LGBTQIA+ community. For some, it can be a traumatic experience, especially if they face rejection, bullying, or discrimination from their families, friends, or community. The experience of rejection or lack of acceptance can cause feelings of shame, isolation, and low self-esteem, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Additionally, LGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and harassment, which can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Moreover, LGBTQIA+ individuals face unique challenges when seeking mental health treatment. Many mental health providers may lack knowledge and understanding of the specific needs and experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community. As a result, LGBTQIA+ individuals may feel misunderstood, invalidated, or dismissed by mental health providers, which can create additional barriers to seeking care.
Corner Canyon’s LGBTQIA+ Specific Approach
Corner Canyon Health Center’s is inclusive and incorporates evidence-based gender-affirming care and recognizes the unique needs and experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community. Corner Canyon employs staff members who are knowledgeable about the complexities of gender identity, sexual orientation, and diverse cultural backgrounds, and uses evidence-based practices that prioritize the mental health and well-being of our LGBTQIA+ clients, such as offering hormone therapy, referrals to gender-affirming surgeries, and providing therapy that is focused on gender identity development. Additionally, Corner Canyon provides a safe and affirming environment for clients to express their gender identity without fear of discrimination or judgment.
Types of Treatment Modalities
Fortunately, there are several types of treatment modalities that can help young adults in the LGBTQIA+ community navigate these challenges and improve their mental health. One common approach is talk therapy, which can help individuals process their experiences and develop coping skills. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is another type of talk therapy that helps individuals regulate their emotions and develop mindfulness skills. Additionally, group therapy can be a beneficial form of treatment for LGBTQIA+ individuals, as it provides a supportive and validating environment where individuals can connect with others who share similar experiences.
EMDR as a Beneficial Form of Treatment
Another type of treatment modality that has been shown to be effective for LGBTQIA+ individuals is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that was originally developed to treat PTSD, but it has been found to be helpful for a range of mental health challenges. EMDR combines elements of talk therapy and exposure therapy with bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help individuals process traumatic experiences and negative beliefs.
For LGBTQIA+ individuals who have experienced trauma, EMDR can be a beneficial form of treatment. Trauma can be experienced in many different ways, such as discrimination, harassment, or violence. These experiences can leave a lasting impact on an individual’s mental health, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. EMDR can help individuals process these experiences and develop new, more adaptive beliefs about themselves and the world around them.
If you, or a loved one is struggling with mental health and are seeking out an inclusive and safe environment, call us today.
