LGBTQ+ Student Mental Health: The challenges and needs of gender, sexual and romantic minorities in Higher Education
At Student Minds we want to better understand and address the unique experiences of the many different and diverse groups of students. We conducted this research to gain a better understanding and to highlight the specific challenges of LGBTQ+ students to inform solutions across the Higher Education and health sectors.
For many LGBTQ+ people in the UK, including students, everyday experiences differ significantly to non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. Research has found strong links between LGBTQ+ identity and poor mental health. Students’ experiences of discrimination and exclusion during their upbringing, from wider society and in educational institutions have been found to, in part, account for LGBTQ+ students’ poorer mental health.
Our research explored the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and experiences of mental health difficulties among students in Higher Education. The survey was completed by 467 students, recent graduates and members of University/ Students' Union staff. The report addresses involvement in the local and University LGBTQ+ community, perceptions of peer support, experiences of mental health difficulties, attitudes and intentions towards help-seeking and perceptions of services and care.
Below, you can download the full report and a two-page summary of the findings and recommendations. For further information get in touch with Dom Smithies at info@studentminds.org.uk.
Interested in sharing your experience of being LGBTQ+ at university? Write for the Student Minds Blog.
For many LGBTQ+ people in the UK, including students, everyday experiences differ significantly to non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. Research has found strong links between LGBTQ+ identity and poor mental health. Students’ experiences of discrimination and exclusion during their upbringing, from wider society and in educational institutions have been found to, in part, account for LGBTQ+ students’ poorer mental health.
Our research explored the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and experiences of mental health difficulties among students in Higher Education. The survey was completed by 467 students, recent graduates and members of University/ Students' Union staff. The report addresses involvement in the local and University LGBTQ+ community, perceptions of peer support, experiences of mental health difficulties, attitudes and intentions towards help-seeking and perceptions of services and care.
Below, you can download the full report and a two-page summary of the findings and recommendations. For further information get in touch with Dom Smithies at info@studentminds.org.uk.
Interested in sharing your experience of being LGBTQ+ at university? Write for the Student Minds Blog.
