Flourish Health & Wellbeing eMag - Latest Edition - Flipbook - Page 8
Common mental health concerns within the
LGBTQIA+ community can include:
Inclusive Workplaces
Matter
Internalised Shame & Stigma: Where
external discrimination and prejudice can
be internalised by individuals.
Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness
and loss of interest.
Anxiety and Social Anxiety: Excessive
worry and fear in social situations.
Eating Disorders: Unhealthy relationships
with food and body image.
Substance Use Disorders: Increased risk of
alcohol and drug misuse.
Suicidal Ideation: Higher prevalence of
thoughts about self-harm or suicide.
LGBTQIA+ employees who feel safe and
supported at work report better mental health
and higher job satisfaction. Employers play a
crucial role in creating inclusive environments.
Practical steps include:
Implementing anti-discrimination and
inclusion policies
Offering diversity training for all staff
Establishing LGBTQIA+ employee
resource groups
Providing access to confidential mental
health support
Visibly supporting Pride events and
LGBTQIA+ causes
The Private Lives 3 Survey (2020), conducted
by La Trobe University with over 6,000
LGBTQIA+ Australians, also found high levels
of suicidal ideation, particularly among younger
respondents, trans and gender-diverse people,
and those living in rural or regional areas.
According to the Australian Workplace Equality
Index (2023), inclusive policies and leadership
directly correlate with employee retention,
engagement, and wellbeing.
The Role of Community
Support and Resources
and Connection
Protective factors such as community
connectedness, positive social relationships,
and access to affirming healthcare can
significantly reduce the risk of mental illhealth. Pride events and LGBTQIA+ networks
can provide not only celebration but also
visibility, validation, and solidarity. Creating
inclusive spaces—at home, in schools, and in
workplaces—can go a long way toward
supporting wellbeing.
For employers and individuals looking to make
a difference, support is available. Converge can
provide confidential employee assistance
(EAP), workplace training, and leadership
consulting that foster inclusive cultures. We
also have a specialist helpline with dedicated
and experienced consultants who understand
LGBTQIA+ needs. Additionally, organisations
such as Beyond Blue, QLife, and Switchboard
offer free and inclusive mental health support
tailored for the LGBTQIA+ community.
