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LGBTIQA+

Many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer or questioning, asexual (LGBTIQA+)*, and other Australians of diverse sexuality and gender, live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives (1).

However, evidence (1,2) shows that a disproportionate number of LGBTIQA+ people experience:

  • mental health challenges, suicidal thoughts and attempts;
    harassment and abuse;
  • homelessness;
  • challenges with alcohol and drug use; and
  • intimate partner and family violence.

Challenges faced by LGBTIQA+ people, along with feelings of shame, fear and confusion, are not because of their sexuality or gender identity. Rather, they are driven by the fear of, or actual, discrimination.

 

*Throughout this webpage we use the acronym LGBTIQA+ which stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer or Questioning, Asexual and the plus stands for other bodily, gender, and sexuality diverse people and communities. We recognise that there are distinct differences across the individual identities and bodily states in these communities and a wide range of diversity.

This article was authored by Danny Della Vedova. Danny is a public health graduate and passionate advocate for the LGBTIQA+ community who started the Regional Rainbows project in Esperance to increase visibility for LGBTIQA+ people living in regional towns.

Last updated: April 2021

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