Language can both wound and heal. The word “queer” can be confusing or even painful for some, given its history as a slur.
Today, “queer” has been powerfully reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community. Understanding its modern meaning is a gateway to self-discovery, acceptance, and profound mental well-being.
Many are not clear on the acronym LGBTQIA+. It stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic, and others, with the plus sign representing all sexual orientations and gender identities not explicitly listed. “2S” is also sometimes used at the beginning and stands for “two-spirited”, used with reference to those from First Nations traditions.
Queer people suffer disproportionately with mental health conditions due to systemic prejudice and other factors. As Nema Heath reported:
- Nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ individuals face hate-motivated victimization tied directly to their identity.
- More than one in three LGBTQ+ youth carries the weight of severe trauma symptoms.
- While PTSD affects less than 5% of the general population, it impacts up to 48% of lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals and 42% of transgender and gender-diverse people [1].
In this article, I explore what “queer” means, why it’s a valuable term for many, and how embracing your authentic identity is a courageous act of healing.
Defining ‘Queer’ – An Umbrella of Possibility
Beyond a Single Label
“Queer” is a term for sexual and gender identities that are not exclusively heterosexual or cisgender (when gender identity corresponds with the sex registered at birth). The term ‘Queer’ lies outside traditional binaries and refers to non-normative gender, sexual orientation, or affectional identities.
The Power of Fluidity
“Queer” is often used by those who find labels like “gay” or “bisexual” too limiting or inaccurate. It supports complexity.
A Political and Personal Statement.
“Queer” is a term that challenges rigid societal norms and binaries (male/female, straight/gay). Its use is always a personal choice; no one should be labeled “queer” without their consent.
The Mental Health of the Closet
The Exhaustion of a Mask
The psychological toll of concealing one’s identity (being in the “closet”), as many have done for years, is significant. Living with this weight can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and a phenomenon known as “minority stress”—the cumulative burden of facing stigma and prejudice.
Internalized Shame and Self-Doubt
Growing up in a community that is not accepting of LGBTQ+ identities can lead to internalized homophobia or transphobia. This may create a barrier between the individual and their authentic self, resulting in low self-esteem and a fragmented identity.
The Path to Healing – Acceptance as the Antidote
The First Step: Self-Acceptance
Arriving at self-acceptance is a process. Claiming a label like “queer” says, “I am valid, and on my terms.” As a form of self-compassion, it directly resists internalized shame. In this process, the role of community is especially important to combat the isolation of the closet.
The Role of Affirming Community
Healing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Finding a community that understands and celebrates your identity is central. This is validating, reduces feelings of isolation, and creates a “chosen family” that offers unconditional support [1].
Affirming Spaces As a Catalyst for Healing
We provide a safe, non-judgmental, trauma-informed space where queer people are welcome.
We offer both therapy and wellness practices to process trauma, build resilience, and develop coping strategies. And we support you in integrating your queer identity as a source of strength.
Studies document that LGBTQIA+ individuals, including those identifying as queer, report higher rates of mental health challenges, partly due to social and structural stigma and discrimination.
Combining evidence-based psychotherapies with culturally informed work increases engagement and effectiveness. For example:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy reduces internalized homophobia and improves mood.
- Trauma-informed care addresses the impacts of religious or societal trauma common in queer people.
- Peer support and community identity sharing facilitate empowerment and reduce isolation.
Such practices support that healing through acceptance is both a protective factor and a therapeutic goal in queer mental health care.
Healing Through Acceptance
In supportive mental health centers, healing through acceptance affirms queer identities and counteracts stigma. It overcomes “minority stress” caused by societal rejection, discrimination, and internalized shame.
Recognizing queer identity in clinical practice involves cultural competence and sensitivity. It avoids pathologizing while affirming fluid and diverse gender and/or sexual expressions.
As a strong step forward in this direction, the American Psychological Association published a strong statement in 2008 supporting Transgender, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression Non-Discrimination [2]. And in 2021, the APA updated its guidelines on Psychological Practice with Sexual Minority Persons [3] [4].
Similarly, the American Psychiatric Association has made great strides as this article indicates [6]. This is part of an initiative to begin to train therapists to competently address the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.
When met with acceptance and social support, identifying oneself with a queer identity can foster resilience and psychological well-being.
Trauma-informed approaches emphasize creating safe, affirming spaces. In them, queer clients can explore their identities without judgment. Self-acceptance, identity validation, and community connection are therapeutic pathways to improved mental health outcomes.
Affirmative therapy approaches tailored to queer experiences help manage the risk of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders that are disproportionately prevalent among queer people.
Your Identity is Your Strength
“Queer” is an empowering term. The journey toward accepting it is coupled with the journey toward mental wellness.
Embracing your queer identity is not just about who you love or how you identify—it’s about embracing your wholeness. Being authentic is your greatest source of strength. Healing begins the moment you honor it. If you are exploring your identity and seeking a supportive space to heal, we’re here for you.
Finding Support for Healing at Corner Canyon
Treatment for mental health conditions and trauma is available in Utah. Are you or a loved one looking for a compassionate space to heal from anxiety, trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, other mental health conditions, or addictions? Our licensed trauma-informed professional therapists and counselors at Corner Canyon Health Centers can provide compassionate help using a range of therapeutic and holistic techniques.
Reach out to our Admissions team now at Corner Canyon. We’re in a peaceful setting bordered by the beautiful Wasatch Mountains.
Sources
[1] Nema Health. 2025. Understanding LGBTQ+ Trauma and the Path to Healing.
[2] Anton, B. S. (2009). Proceedings of the American Psychological Association for the legislative year 2008: Minutes of the annual meeting of the Council of Representatives. Resolution on Transgender, Gender Identity, and Transgender, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression Non-Discrimination. American Psychologist, 64, 372–453.
[3] American Psychological Association, APA Task Force on Psychological Practice with Sexual Minority Persons. (2021). Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Sexual Minority Persons.
[4] Clay R. 2022. Updated guidelines for sexual minority people focus on resilience. American Psychological Association. Monitor on Psychology 2022 November/December. Volume 53, No. 8.