Non-Heterosexual Medical Students Are Critically Vulnerable to Mental Health Risks: The Need to Account for Sexual Diversity in Wellness Initiatives
Daniel E. Suárez, Andrés Camilo Cardozo Alarcón, M. Rodríguez, Elena María Trujillo Maza
Abstract
This study suggests that self-identified non-heterosexual medical students exhibit worse mental health outcomes evaluated through validated self-report scales and subjective perception of mental health status. This report specifically indicates that non-heterosexual medical students report family dysfunction more often and have less social support, which serve as additional risk factors. Future studies must assess social support, clarify the impact of family and peer support in mental health problems, and explore students' views on their sexual identity and the burden imposed by experiences of discrimination.
Topics & Concepts
Mental healthSexual orientationClinical psychologyPsychologySuicidal ideationPsychiatryTest (biology)MedicineSuicide preventionPoison controlSocial psychologyPaleontologyEnvironmental healthBiologyHealthcare professionals’ stress and burnoutDiversity and Career in MedicineMental Health Treatment and Access