The Well-being of LGBTQ+ People in Czechia During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study examines the well-being and mental health of LGBTQ + individuals in Czechia during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on differences across three age groups and factors predicting depressive symptomatology and resilience. As part of the Global Pride Study, data were collected in 2022 from 300 participants aged 19–68 through an online anonymous survey, assessing various domains, including health status, mental health, environmental risks, identity factors, access to social resources and connectedness, COVID-19 factors, and demographics. Hierarchical linear regression models were utilized to analyze predictors of depressive symptomatology and resilience. Significant age-group differences were identified in loneliness, identity disclosure and affirmation, discrimination/victimization, depressive symptomatology, and resilience. In the final multivariate model, significant predictors of depressive symptomatology included age, education, loneliness, discrimination and victimization. Lower loneliness was the sole predictor of higher resilience. Interestingly, COVID-19-related factors did not show significant associations with either outcome. LGBTQ + individuals aged 36–50 and 51 + years reported better mental health outcomes compared to those aged 19–35 years. Loneliness emerged as a central factor influencing both depressive symptomatology and resilience. This study underscores the need for targeted mental health interventions and policies that address discrimination and loneliness for LGBTQ + individuals. Policies should aim to reduce structural stigma and promote health equity by ensuring access to supportive and affirming environments, encourage legal recognition and protections, and engagement across generations.