Discrimination and depressive symptoms in transgender and gender-diverse individuals and lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults: Examining associations across the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

BACKGROUND

Both transgender/gender-diverse (TGGD) and lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) individuals experience discrimination tied to their identities, which contributes to poorer mental health outcomes. Research frequently combines these groups under the broader LGBTQ+ label, potentially obscuring the distinct experiences of each subgroup. This study investigated how discrimination relates to depressive symptoms in TGGD and LGB individuals and whether these patterns vary between groups.

METHODS

Data were drawn from the HEARD (Health Equity, Awareness, and Resilience to Discrimination) project, including a convenience sample of 79 TGGD and 250 LGB volunteers recruited through social media and partner organizations in summer 2023. Regression analyses examined links between group identity, discrimination exposure, and depressive symptoms while accounting for sociodemographic factors.

RESULTS

TGGD participants were younger (average age 29 vs. 45) and more likely to report financial hardship (21% vs. 3%) compared to LGB participants. Both groups reported substantial discrimination exposure (63% TGGD; 77% LGB), and moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms were common in both (56% and 45%, respectively). Greater discrimination-particularly social isolation (β = 0.404, p = .002) and vicarious trauma (β = 0.283, p = .034)-was associated with more severe depression. Group identity alone did not independently predict depressive symptom severity.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary findings suggest that the nature and intensity of discrimination, rather than group identity itself, may be linked to depression risk. Social isolation and vicarious trauma appear especially relevant. Mental health interventions and policies addressing LGBTQ+ disparities may benefit from targeting these specific stressors, though replication using more rigorous and trans-inclusive measures is needed before drawing firm conclusions.