LGBTQ populations: Psychologically vulnerable communities in the COVID-19 pandemic

Psychol Trauma. 2020 Aug;12(S1):S239-S242. doi: 10.1037/tra0000837. Epub 2020 Jun 18.

Abstract

In the wake of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the psychological consequences that will follow, it is critical to acknowledge and understand the unique vulnerabilities of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (LGBTQ) populations in order to provide equitable mental health intervention that reaches these highly at-risk groups. It is well established that LGBTQ persons face social disadvantages and mental health disparities, which may be exacerbated as a result of COVID-19 pandemic trauma and social isolation measures. This commentary highlights structural, social, and individual-level challenges among LGBTQ populations in the context of COVID-19 and proposes prevention recommendations to mitigate the psychological ramifications of COVID-19 pandemic-related trauma among LGBTQ persons. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • COVID-19
  • Child
  • Coronavirus Infections*
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Humans
  • Infection Control*
  • Mental Health Services
  • Middle Aged
  • Pandemics*
  • Pneumonia, Viral*
  • Psychological Trauma* / etiology
  • Psychological Trauma* / psychology
  • Psychological Trauma* / therapy
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities / psychology*
  • Social Isolation / psychology*
  • Students
  • Vulnerable Populations / psychology*
  • Young Adult