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The Public and Private Faces of Being LGBT

August 12, 2022

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Identity

Being LGBTQIA+ comes with many challenges. While it is true that there are many wonderful aspects to being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, there are also some major drawbacks. Let's explore both the public and private faces of being LGBTQIA+; how we may be forced to hide our true selves from the world, and how this can take a toll on our mental health.

The first thing to understand is that many LGBTQIA+ people are forced to put on a "public face" to avoid discrimination. This means that they may act straight or cisgender in public, even if it is not how they truly identify. This can be incredibly stressful and draining, as they are constantly having to suppress their true selves. They may also avoid talking about their personal lives with friends and family, for fear of being rejected or ridiculed. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

According to a study by the National LGBTQ Task Force, LGBTQIA+ people are 3.4 times more likely to experience a mental health condition than heterosexual and cisgender people.

67% of transgender people have considered suicide, as opposed to 41% of the general population.

35% of bisexual women have experienced rape or attempted rape, as opposed to 17% of heterosexual women.

46% of lesbians have experienced rape or attempted rape, as opposed to 7% of heterosexual women.

If you are struggling with the public/private dichotomy, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available, like ours, to help you deal with the stress of hiding your true identity. Many supportive people in the LGBTQIA+ community can provide you with a sense of belonging and acceptance. You deserve to live your life authentically, and some people will help you do just that.

Leave a comment to show support for the community. We are never alone! :)

Written By: 

Kollyn Conrad

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March 20th 2023

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