LGBTQIA+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or sometimes questioning), intersex, asexual, and others. The “plus” represents other sexual identities, including pansexual.  The acronym is used to represent a diverse range of sexualities and gender identities, referring to anyone who is transgender and/or same/similar gender attracted.  This is often shortened to LGBT+.

There are things the LGBT+ community faces that can sometimes make life feel overwhelming or unmanageable. Feelings of shame can be a big factor that impacts mental health and wellbeing. There are also numerous things that can make reaching out for help difficult, such as complex relationships with family or with healthcare professionals. External pressures can also lead to internalised homophobia and feelings sometimes known as ‘minority stress’. ‘Minority stress’ is the result of someone experiencing stress based on their ethnicity, race, sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

People with an LGBT+ identity can find it difficult to navigate moving through childhood and early adulthood and can experience mental health issues in later life. LGBT+ people often struggle to find places to be themselves with groups of people who understand them.

For more information on support available via the NHS Lanarkshire Sexual Health website: