Written By: Eric Tirrell, TMS Clinic and Neuromodulation Research Operations Manager at Butler Hospital and Camilla Regalia, Sc.B. Candidate Neuroscience on June 27, 2022
Originally published: June 2022
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ+) identities are not mental illnesses. However, many LGBTQ+ people experience discrimination, rejection, bullying, violence, and barriers to affirming healthcare. These experiences—often referred to as minority stress, can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal thoughts.
Recent national data highlight just how important supportive, affirming care can be. According to the CDC's 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 65% of LGBTQ+ high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and 41% seriously considered attempting suicide. Transgender and questioning students reported especially high rates of violence, poor mental health, and suicidal behavior. These disparities are not inevitable. Supportive families, safe schools, connected communities, and affirming healthcare can make a meaningful difference.
Recognizing the Signs of Depression
Depression can look different from person to person. Common signs include persistent sadness or emptiness, irritability, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, withdrawing from others, or thoughts of not wanting to be alive. No one should have to wait until they're in crisis to seek help.
Treatment Options for Depression
Treatment for depression may include psychotherapy, medication, peer or family support, and healthy lifestyle habits like getting enough sleep, staying physically active, reducing substance use, and maintaining social connections. For people with moderate to severe depression who have not improved enough with standard treatments, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be an option. TMS is a noninvasive outpatient treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It does not require anesthesia, and you'll remain awake throughout treatment.
Esketamine (Spravato®) is another option for adults with treatment-resistant depression. This FDA-approved nasal spray has psychoactive properties and can provide rapid relief of depressive symptoms for some people. These treatments are generally covered by insurance, and our team can help with prior authorization and coordination of benefits.
Treatment Options for Depression
At Butler Hospital, the Brain Research and Interventional Neurotherapeutics (BRaIN) Program provides advanced treatment options for depression and other psychiatric conditions while remaining closely connected to clinical research. Care New England also continues its systemwide commitment to providing respectful, inclusive care and reducing barriers that can affect access to treatment and health outcomes.
The most important message is simple: LGBTQ+ people deserve mental healthcare that is knowledgeable, affirming, and free from judgment. Reaching out to a trusted healthcare provider, family member, friend, school counselor, or community organization can be an important first step.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
To learn more about TMS and other BRaIN Program services at Butler Hospital, call (401) 455-6632 or email BRAIN@CareNE.org.
From Pain to Pride: Treating Depression Within the LGBTQ+ Community"
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