Safe Place Manual - Potential Problems Facing GLBT Individuals

Isolation

As a GLBT individual begins to experience same-gender attractions, they often feel very different from their peers and very alone. They may go to great lengths to deny their own feelings and to hide them from others. Many times they do not personally know any openly GLBT individuals and they don’t know anyone with whom they feel safe talking about their feelings.

Low Self-Esteem

GLBT individuals tend to internalize many of the negative myths and stereotypes about GLBT people that are prevalent in our society. Their shame about their feelings can lead to an extremely negative self-image.

Depression and Anxiety

GLBT individuals may experience significant emotional distress due to their sense of isolation and low self-esteem, along with the lack of resources available to help them cope with the issues they are facing.

Suicide

Unfortunately, it was found that about 30% of self identified GLBT youth seriously consider and often attempt suicide. According to a study from 1989 by the US Department of Health and Human Services in GLBT youth are 2 to 3 times more likely to attempt suicide then their straight peers. This research was confirmed by similar studies in the early 1990’s. The reports consistently identified isolation, abuse from the classmates, and unsupportive or unaccepting family as primary causes of the depression and low self esteem that leads to thoughts or attempts of suicide.

Substance Abuse

GLBT individuals are especially vulnerable to turning to alcohol or drugs as a way of trying to cope or escape.

Violence

Individuals who are GLBT or those who are perceived to be GLBT are often targets of verbal, physical and/or sexual assault. Most of the violence reported comes from family members or peers, but it can also be from a complete stranger.

Family Problems

In addition to domestic violence, GLBT individuals often face rejection or loss of support from their families. A significant number of GLBT youth are kicked out of their homes or run away. Nationwide, approximately 25% of all homeless youth are GLBT.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV/AIDS

GLBT individuals are especially at risk for a number of reasons, including:

1. The lack of specific sex education about same-gender sexual activity
2. Denial and secrecy about one’s sexual orientation/gender identity
3. Self-destructive behaviors related to internalized homophobia.