The impact of discrimination on people

in the LGBTI community.

Many lesbians, gay, bi, trans, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people report to dealing surprisingly well
with systemic discrimination, and most do not experience depression or any other mental health
condition. However, experiences with discrimination and stigmatization can lead to a higher likelihood of
emotional distress, depression and anxiety.

People can often feel pressured to fit in with society's conventional ideas of being male or female. Those
who don't fit the mould

can be subjected to ridicule, intimidation and even physical abuse.

Even though there is an increasing acceptance of LGBTIQ+ people in society and greater visibility in the
media and public life, many LGBTIQ+ people still experience discrimination, harassment and violence at
work, school and in social situations.
Discrimination can take the form of:
 obvious acts of prejudice and discrimination (e.g., someone who is open about being
transgender being refused employment or promotion)
 more subtle, but no less harmful, discrimination that reinforces negative stereotypes and
feelings of difference (e.g., use of the word 'gay' as a derogatory term).

Stop. Think. Respect.

Because of the things people say and do, LGBTIQ+ people are far more likely to experience depression
and anxiety. Beyond Blue is committed to raising awareness about these issues and helping to reduce
the discrimination faced by LGBTIQ+ communities.

Beyond Blue, in collaboration with LGBTIQ+ communities and the November Foundation, has produced a
national campaign aimed at improving the Australian community's understanding of discriminatory
behaviors and the impact it can have on the mental health of LGBTIQ+ communities.

The campaign, including the Left-hand cinema commercial and real-life stories, works
predominantly with the broader Australian community, and young people in particular. It has
been designed to prompt people to stop the discrimination, think about how comments you
make could cause real distress and harm, and respect people who are different from you.

Real life stories

Annaliese, Gina, Marlee, Rob, Sally and Shane share their stories of being treated differently
and how they have overcome depression and/or anxiety. You can watch their stories at the top
of this page, or visit our Stop. Think. Respect. page to find out more about our campaign.