The Southern Equality LGBTQ Health Survey: Uncovering the Health Challenges of an Underserved Community
Despite progress in LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, significant health disparities persist for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in the Southern United States. These disparities include higher rates of HIV, sexually transmitted infections, substance abuse, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Compounding these challenges, LGBTQ+ Southerners often struggle to access compassionate and informed healthcare, a gap highlighted by the Campaign for Southern Equality’s Southern LGBTQ Health Survey.
Discrimination in Healthcare: A Barrier to Wellbeing
The 2019 Southern LGBTQ Health Survey, one of the largest studies of its kind, provides a detailed look into the health challenges faced by over 5,600 LGBTQ+ individuals in the South. The survey revealed that a significant portion of respondents, particularly those who are transgender, non-binary, or gender nonconforming, reported poor physical and mental health. For instance, while 55% of respondents described their health as good or excellent, over one-third reported their health as fair or poor, with mental health outcomes being even more troubling: about 50% rated their mental health as fair or poor.
Bisexual, pansexual, and queer respondents were more likely to report poor mental health compared to their gay or lesbian counterparts. Notably, 66.5% of transgender respondents experienced mental health struggles, compared to 42.6% of cisgender individuals. These statistics underscore the urgent need for healthcare providers to better understand and address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the South.
Access to Healthcare: A Persistent Challenge
The survey also highlighted the ongoing issue of access to healthcare. Approximately 15% of respondents reported that they never felt comfortable seeking healthcare in their communities. This discomfort was more prevalent among those who were transgender, non-white, and low-income earners. In contrast, cisgender, white, male, gay, and higher-income individuals were more likely to feel comfortable accessing healthcare.
This disparity is particularly concerning given the South’s status as the epicenter of a new HIV epidemic. The survey found that a significant number of men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women may be unaware of their HIV status, further emphasizing the need for widespread testing and education.
The Survey as a Catalyst for Change
Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, Executive Director of the Campaign for Southern Equality, views the survey as a call to action. The data collected offers valuable insights that can guide healthcare providers in improving their services for LGBTQ+ individuals. For example, the survey can inform the development of more inclusive and affirming healthcare practices, as well as policy-level changes that address the specific needs of LGBTQ+ Southerners.
The Campaign for Southern Equality has already begun offering training to healthcare providers to help them better understand and serve LGBTQ+ patients. However, the demand for this training is high, and there is a pressing need for more widespread education among medical professionals.
Moving Forward: Hope and Advocacy
While the challenges are significant, there is hope for improving the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ individuals in the South. The Campaign for Southern Equality continues to advocate for changes at both the local and policy levels, pushing for initiatives such as Medicaid expansion and increased funding for mental health services.
For those interested in making a difference, Jasmine Beach-Ferrara encourages starting small: talk openly about mental health and HIV, get tested, and use your voice to advocate for equality and better healthcare for all. The fight for LGBTQ+ health equity is ongoing, but with continued effort and support, there is reason to believe that the future will be brighter for LGBTQ+ Southerners.
For more information on the survey and to learn how you can support LGBTQ+ health initiatives in the South, visit the Campaign for Southern Equality.
