Heterosexism and Mental Health Distress among LGBTGEQIAP plus Individuals in the South: Influence of Context

Utilizing minority stress theory, our study examines the relationship between heterosexist climate in high school and LGBTGEQIAP + individuals' mental health. For a state needs assessment, 500 participants provided self-reports of discrimination and mental health distress. Using chi square and ANOVA, results yield significantly higher rates of mental health distress and suicidality among participants reporting higher levels of heterosexist school climate. Additionally, we identify characteristics of participants who yield the highest rates of mental health distress and suicidality among our sample. We provide study limitations and implications for counseling advocacy and future research.