New guidance to support LGBTQIA+ inclusion in mental health services
The material will offer "clear and accessible guidance" to mental health professionals on how to meet the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals accessing services, according to the Mental Health Commission (MHC).
The aim is to promote "a deeper understanding" of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people and to improve service-user experiences across Ireland's mental health system.
The guidance - which will launched at the LGBT Ireland National Conference this morning - is based on an evidence review, commissioned by the MHC.
The review highlighted the disproportionate levels of mental distress and unmet needs among the LGBTQIA+ community - especially among young people and transgender individuals.
It found there were higher rates of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and self-injury among LGBTQIA+ people.
Other issues that came to the fore included increased prevalence of anxiety, depression - including perinatal depression - and eating disorders, particularly among sexual minorities.
Guidance 'practical, much-needed'
Chief Executive of the MHC John Farrelly described the guidance document as a response to the reality, which is that many LGBTQIA+ people face significant mental health challenges that may not always be adequately addressed.
Research including the Being LGBTQI+ In Ireland and My LGBTI+ Voice Matters studies, have demonstrated that LGBTQIA+ individuals experience a higher burden of mental health difficulties compared to the general population, according to the MHC.
CEO of LGBT Ireland Paula Fagan welcomed the guidance which she described as "practical" and "much-needed".
She said that the 'Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland' study showed that mental health outcomes for LGBTQIA+ individuals have worsened in recent years, with significant rises in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
"This document is a vital step toward changing that trajectory by equipping staff with the tools and awareness they need to treat LGBTQIA+ service users with dignity, understanding and respect," she said.
Minister of State for Mental Health Mary Butler welcomed the guidance and training resource to support a more inclusive approach.
She said: "Everyone who uses a mental health service should feel confident that they can access services which are inclusive, compassionate and completely non-judgmental.
"I encourage all those who deliver and work in mental health services to implement the important and practical steps contained in the guidance."
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