A Cautionary Life, LGBTQ+ and Generalized Anxiety Disorder
We all experience anxiety. Maybe we have a big presentation to give at work or have an important test coming up. But once that test is over, or we nail that presentation, our anxiety usually washes away. Now imagine that feeling, but it is constant and unpredictable.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
The LGBTQ+ community faces higher levels of anxiety. “68% of LGBTQ youths reported symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, including more than 3 in 4 transgender and nonbinary youths," (SAGE).
To understand the severity, we need to discuss the symptoms of general anxiety disorder. These include trouble sleeping, uncontrollable feelings of worry, irritability, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, fatigue, and muscle tension. These are not just once in a while occurrences. With GAD, these symptoms occur every day and over long periods.
So why is anxiety more persistent in LGBTQ+ youths?
LGBTQ+ youth constantly have to worry about whether who they are with at any given moment will accept them. Not being accepted is not as harmless as simple disapproval. Rather, it is concern over if the person will harm or out-them to others who may harm them. It is easy to believe that this type of thinking is dramatic because not everyone is unaccepting. Nevertheless, not knowing who is or is not accepting is extremely worrisome.
I know someone who gets anxious over coming out to her parents even though they are accepting of others. There is always this uncertainty leftover that causes anxiety. Coming-Out anxiety is even higher among transgender individuals. They are more likely to have negative interactions, especially with people who are more likely to act on their hatred.
This type of anxiety is well known in the psychological community. Psychologists have determined its cause is persistent prejudice and discrimination. This stress is impossible to get away from and will probably persist for the rest of their lives. So how can we help?
Becoming an ally is the first step. Make it clear that you are accepting and willing to stand out against the hatred and prejudice that cause anxiety. Start by learning more about the issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. For those apart of the LGBTQ+ community, reach out for support. Reach out to anyone you feel comfortable confiding in and lean on them for support. Reach out to reliable professionals, teachers, guidance counselors, and anyone that can help and support you. No one has to do this alone.