Mental health of Dutch LGBTQIA+ young adults: addressing challenges and harnessing strengths

Abstract Background Globally, there is a growing focus on mental health, with particular attention to young adults. Among them, those who identify as LGBTQIA+ face unique challenges such as limited acceptance and discrimination, negatively affecting their mental health. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the differences in risk and protective factors related to the mental health of young adults who identify as LGBTQIA+ compared to their peers. Methods Data was obtained from the Dutch Public Health Monitor Young Adults 2024, surveying over 135,000 participants aged 16-25 on (mental) health, well-being, and lifestyle. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess factors associated with poor mental health outcomes, controlling for gender, age, education, migration background, urbanity, and living arrangements. To gain a better understanding of these factors, additional qualitative research was conducted using group and individual interviews with 58 young adults. Results In total, 13.439 young adults identified as LGBTQIA+. They reported worse overall mental health, greater loneliness, less happiness, and more frequent suicidal thoughts compared to peers. Key factors such as self-satisfaction, resilience, and performance pressure emerged as significant challenges. Qualitative findings highlighted the impact of discrimination, aggression, and context-specific lack of acceptance in rural areas, sports, and religion. Despite experienced progress in societal acceptance, young adults express a strong need for supportive environments, improved social connections, and educational initiatives to reduce stigma. Conclusions This study highlights significant disparities in mental health outcomes between LGBTQIA+ young adults and their peers. It is essential to address the challenges LGBTQIA+ young adults face. The findings provide a foundation for interventions and policies that foster inclusion, contributing to their mental health, well-being, and societal equality. Key messages • LGBTQIA+ young adults face unique mental health challenges like limited acceptance, discrimination, self-satisfaction, resilience, and performance pressure. • Supportive environments, social connections, and inclusive education are key to fostering improvements in the mental health, well-being, and societal equality of LGBTQIA+ young adults.