About the report
The higher rates of violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTQI young people significantly impact their mental health. These problems arise in families, schools, health services, employment, and other areas of life. Access to healthcare and mental health services that are LGBTQI-informed and competent in supporting young people is often limited, further hindering their ability to seek appropriate care and support.
However, there remains limited research into their experiences and needs, particularly regarding mental health, in the European region. Our new IGLYO report “LGBTQI Youth Mental Health in the Spotlight” represents the first step toward addressing this research gap and offers an opportunity for the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQI young people to shape policy and decision-making.
Based on data from more than 1,500 LGBTQI young people aged 14-30 across 35 countries in the European region, our research explores key issues such as anxiety and depression, identifying both the factors that support and those that harm LGBTQI young people’s mental well-being. We also examine their experiences in accessing support services, and further focus on trans and intersex youth and the impact of intersectional marginalisations.
Our report concludes by highlighting vital recommendations to shape legislation, improve healthcare systems, and guide schools on how to better support LGBTQI young people’s mental health. These findings will guide our engagement with European and national authorities responsible for supporting LGBTQI youth and advancing their mental health.
You can download the full report here.
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For an overview of the key findings, you can access IGLYO’s press release here.
"LGBTQI Youth Mental Health in the Spotlight" is the first large-scale study of its kind in the European region. It was commissioned by IGLYO with financial support from the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture & Science and the EU’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme. The contents of the report are the sole responsibility of IGLYO and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the Dutch Ministry or the European Commission.
