E-ISSN:2320-8686
P-ISSN:2321-127X

Review Article

LGBTQ+ Mental Health

International Journal of Medical Research and Review

2024 Volume 2 Number 12 Mar-Apr
Publisherwww.medresearch.in

The Intersection of LGBTQ+ Mental Health and the Rise of Same-Sex Marriage: Understanding Current Trends and Implications for LGBTQ+ Rights and Society

Devi KA1*, Singh SK2, Devi TS3
DOI:https://doi.org/10.17511/ijmrr .2024.i02.03

1* Khumukcham Anupama Devi, Tutor, College of Nursing AIIMS Patna, Patna, Bihar, India.

2 Sudhakar Kumar Singh, Tutor, Health Department Govt of Bihar, ANM School Muzaffarpur, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India.

3 Thokchom Soniya Devi, Tutor, College of Nursing AIIMS, Deoghar, Jharkhand, India.

The mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals is often marred by societal stigma and discrimination. However, recent strides in LGBTQ+ rights, particularly the legalization of same-sex marriage, present promising prospects. This article examines the intersection of LGBTQ+ mental health and same-sex marriage, emphasizing the positive effects on well-being. Legal recognition of same-sex marriage is associated with improved mental health outcomes, including reduced rates of depression and anxiety, heightened social support, and enhanced self-esteem. Moreover, it fosters societal acceptance, diminishes internalized stigma, and promotes positive parenting experiences within LGBTQ+ families. Additionally, same-sex marriage yields economic advantages, such as financial stability and increased workplace productivity among LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite these advancements, disparities persist, with many countries yet to legalize same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ individuals facing ongoing discrimination. Continuous advocacy efforts are vital to ensure equal rights and protections for the LGBTQ+ community globally.

Keywords: Same Sex Marriage, LGBTQ+, Mental Health, Stigma, Discrimination, Legal recognition

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Khumukcham Anupama Devi, Tutor, , College of Nursing AIIMS Patna, Patna, Bihar, India.
Email: 		Devi KA, Singh SK, Devi TS, The Intersection of LGBTQ+ Mental Health and the Rise of Same-Sex Marriage: Understanding Current Trends and Implications for LGBTQ+ Rights and Society. Int J Med Res Rev. 2024;2(12):48-51.
Available From
https://ijmrr.medresearch.in/index.php/ijmrr/article/view/1465

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2024-02-02 2024-02-09 2024-02-16 2024-02-23 2024-03-01
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
Nil None Yes 14.2

© 2024by Devi KA, Singh SK, Devi TSand Published by Siddharth Health Research and Social Welfare Society. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Introduction

The LGBTQ+ community has long faced discrimination, prejudice, and marginalization, which have had significant impacts on their mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health disparities compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts.[1] However, in recent years, there have been significant advancements in LGBTQ+ rights and recognition, including the increasing acceptance and legal recognition of same-sex marriage in many countries around the world, including India. These developments have important implications for the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals, as marriage is a significant institution that can impact various aspects of an individual's life, including their mental health and relationships.

LGBTQ+ Mental Health

LGBTQ+ individuals face unique mental health challenges due to societal stigma, discrimination, prejudice, and marginalization. These challenges can lead to increased rates of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidality, and PTSD.[2] The stressors and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals can impact their mental health throughout their lives, from childhood and adolescence to adulthood and old age .[3] Family rejection, social isolation, employment discrimination, and lack of access to appropriate healthcare, including mental health services, further compound the mental health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.[4] It is crucial to acknowledge the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and provide inclusive and affirmative mental health care that considers their unique needs and experiences.

Rise of Same-Sex Marriage

In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the legal recognition and acceptance of same-sex marriage in many countries around the world, including India. Same-sex marriage refers to the legal union between two individuals of the same gender, allowing them to have the same rights and responsibilities as opposite-sex married

couples. The recognition of same-sex marriage is often seen as a significant step towards achieving LGBTQ rights and equality, as it acknowledges and affirms the love, commitment, and relationships of LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex marriage has gained increasing societal acceptance, with growing support from the general public, advocacy organizations, and legal institutions. This recognition of same-sex marriage has important implications for LGBTQ+ individuals in various aspects of their lives, including their mental health and well-being.

The Impacts of Same-Sex Marriage on LGBTQ+ Mental Health

The recognition of same-sex marriage has been shown to have positive impacts on the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. Studies have found that legal recognition of same-sex marriage is associated with improved mental health outcomes, including reduced rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidality among LGBTQ+ individuals.[5] Same-sex marriage provides LGBTQ+ individuals with legal and social recognition of their relationships, which can lead to increased social support, improved self-esteem, and reduced minority stress, all of which contribute to better mental health outcomes.[6] Moreover, same-sex marriage allows LGBTQ+ individuals to access various benefits and protections, such as spousal health insurance, inheritance rights, and tax benefits, which can positively impact their financial and social well-being, and subsequently their mental health.[7]

The recognition of same-sex marriage also has implications for the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals within their marriages. It provides legal protection and recognition of their relationships, which can lead to improved marital satisfaction, relationship quality, and stability.[6] Same-sex marriage can also contribute to the normalization and acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships within society, reducing internalized stigma and promoting positive mental health outcomes within marriages.[8] Furthermore, same-sex marriage can also impact the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals in terms of their parenting experiences, as it provides legal recognition and protection for LGBTQ+ couples who are raising children, leading to improved psychological well-being for both parents and children .[9]


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Implications of Same-Sex Marriage for LGBTQ+ Rights and Society

The recognition of same-sex marriage has broader implications for LGBTQ+ rights and society. It represents a significant step towards achieving legal recognition and equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals, including the right to marry and the right to have their relationships recognized and protected by law. Same-sex marriage can contribute to the societal acceptance and normalization of LGBTQ+ relationships, challenging heteronormative norms and promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion.[8] It can also contribute to reducing discrimination and stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, as legal recognition of same-sex marriage sends a powerful message of equality and acceptance to society.[5]

The recognition of same-sex marriage can also have positive implications for the overall well-being of society. It promotes inclusivity, diversity, and social cohesion, as it recognizes and values the relationships of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Same-sex marriage can also have economic benefits, as it promotes financial stability, increased consumer spending, and improved workplace productivity among LGBTQ+ individuals.[7] Moreover, it can contribute to the overall progress of LGBTQ+ rights, as it serves as a platform for advocating for other LGBTQ+ rights, such as anti-discrimination laws, employment protection, and access to healthcare.[6]

The recognition of same-sex marriage has been gaining momentum in many countries around the world. As of 2023, same-sex marriage is legally recognized in 30 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France,Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, among others .[10] These legal victories reflect a growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships and an increasing recognition of LGBTQ+ rights globally.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of countries legalizing same-sex marriage. This trend can be attributed

to various factors, including changing social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals, increased visibility and advocacy efforts by LGBTQ+ communities, and evolving legal and policy frameworks. For example, in the United States, same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide in 2015 by the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, which recognized the constitutional right to marriage equality for same-sex couples.[11] This decision marked a significant milestone in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and has since paved the way for other countries to follow suit.

The increasing recognition of same-sex marriage is also reflected in public opinion polls, which show growing support for marriage equality. According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in 2021, a majority of adults in the United States (70%) and many other countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany, support same-sex marriage.[12] This indicates a shift in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ relationships and a greater acceptance of marriage equality.

However, it is important to note that despite the progress made in recent years, same-sex marriage is still not recognized in many countries, and LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face discrimination, stigma, and legal challenges in their pursuit of marriage equality. In some countries, homosexuality is criminalized, and same-sex relationships are not recognized by law. Even in countries where same-sex marriage is legal, LGBTQ+ individuals may face social prejudice, discrimination, and unequal treatment in various aspects of their lives, including employment, housing, healthcare, and adoption rights. Therefore, while the increasing recognition of same-sex marriage is a positive development, there is still work to be done in ensuring equal rights and protections for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.

Conclusion

The recognition of same-sex marriage has had significant implications for LGBTQ+ mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and society as a whole. It has been associated with improved mental health outcomes, increased social support, and greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships. Same-sex marriage represents a step towards achieving legal recognition and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals,


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challenging heteronormative norms, and promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion. However, despite the progress made, same-sex marriage is not recognized in many countries, and LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face discrimination and challenges in their pursuit of marriage equality. It is important to continue advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and promoting inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance in all aspects of society. By recognizing the intersection of LGBTQ+ mental health and the rise of same-sex marriage, we can better understand current trends, address disparities, and promote positive change for the LGBTQ+ community, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

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