Author: Kate Higham

June is a time for celebrating, raising visibility, and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community. As we embrace Pride Month, it's important to not only remember the vibrant history and significance of this celebration but also to recognize the vital link between identity and health. Understanding how our identities affect our health can lead to better health outcomes and more equitable healthcare for everyone.

The history and significance of Pride Month

Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. These protests, sparked by police raids at the Stonewall Inn in New York City, ignited a broader movement demanding equal rights and justice for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Since then, Pride Month has evolved into a global celebration of diversity, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for equality.

Beyond colorful parades and festivals, Pride Month is a powerful reminder of progress and ongoing challenges. It underscores the need for acceptance and belonging while addressing continued issues like discrimination and health disparities. Pride Month also calls on allies to join the fight for equality, advocate for inclusive policies, and amplify marginalized voices. Through collective effort, we can create a world where everyone can live openly and authentically without fear.

The power of resilience

Resilience is a defining characteristic of the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite facing systemic discrimination and health disparities, many individuals have shown remarkable strength and perseverance. These stories of resilience are not just inspiring; they also highlight the critical need for inclusive and supportive healthcare environments.

Consider the experiences of transgender individuals navigating the healthcare system. Many face significant barriers, including a lack of knowledgeable providers and fear of discrimination. A staggering 70% of LGBTQIA+ individuals have felt discriminated against by their healthcare providers (1), making it clear that there is a pressing need for change. Yet, with courage and determination, they continue to advocate for their health needs and seek out affirming care. Their resilience not only improves their own health outcomes but also paves the way for greater understanding and inclusion within the healthcare system.

Similarly, gay and bisexual men, who are disproportionately affected by HIV (2), have championed the importance of regular testing and preventive measures. Through community-driven initiatives and support networks, they have reduced stigma and improved access to care, demonstrating the power of collective action in overcoming health challenges.

How embracing identity leads to better health outcomes

Embracing one's identity is a vital component of overall well-being. For LGBTQIA+ individuals, acceptance, and affirmation of their identities can significantly impact their mental and physical health. Studies have shown that those who are open about their sexual orientation or gender identity often experience lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who conceal their identities (3).

One reason for this is the reduction of minority stress, which is the chronic stress experienced by stigmatized minority groups. When individuals feel accepted and valued for who they are, the negative effects of minority stress are diminished, leading to improved mental health outcomes.

Additionally, self-acceptance encourages proactive health behaviors. LGBTQIA+ individuals who are comfortable with their identities are more likely to seek regular health screenings, engage in preventive care, and adhere to treatment plans. This proactive approach to health is crucial for early detection and management of conditions, ultimately leading to better long-term health outcomes.

The impact of healthcare barriers

Despite these positive outcomes, many LGBTQIA+ individuals face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. According to the LetsGetChecked 2024 Health Equity Report, 51% of respondents feel healthcare is unaffordable, and 81% believe high costs prevent equal access to care (4). These financial barriers disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, who are more likely to cancel or delay appointments due to cost.

Geographic barriers also play a role, with nearly half of respondents spending 15-30 minutes traveling to their primary doctor’s office (5). This travel time can be even longer for those in rural areas, exacerbating the difficulty of accessing timely care. Education and health literacy further complicate the issue; those with lower education levels are less likely to understand their medical costs or know which healthcare services they need.

Our commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community

At LetsGetChecked, we recognize the unique health challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and are committed to providing accessible, inclusive, and confidential healthcare services. Our mission is to break down barriers to care and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to attain their highest level of health.

  • Accessible health services: Our health testing services offer a convenient and discreet way for individuals to manage their health. Whether it's STI testing, hormone monitoring, or general wellness screenings, we provide a range of services designed to meet the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. By offering these services at home, we help reduce the stigma and anxiety often associated with visiting a healthcare provider in person.

  • Inclusive care: Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that the healthcare system can be intimidating and discriminatory for many LGBTQIA+ individuals. That's why we've created a supportive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Our team is trained to provide culturally competent care, ensuring that all patients feel seen, heard, and understood.

  • Confidentiality and comfort: Confidentiality is paramount in healthcare, especially for those who may fear discrimination or judgment. LetsGetChecked guarantees that all health data is handled with the utmost privacy. Our testing allows individuals to collect samples in the comfort of their own homes, ensuring a safe and comfortable healthcare experience.

  • Advocacy and education: Beyond providing health services, LetsGetChecked is dedicated to advocacy and education. We work to raise awareness about the health issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community and advocate for policy changes that promote health equity. Through educational resources and community partnerships, we strive to empower individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions.

The Takeaway

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s also a chance to think about how our identities and health are connected and how acceptance and inclusivity can significantly improve overall well-being.

When LGBTQIA+ individuals embrace their identities, they can reduce stress, boost their mental health, and take better care of themselves. At LetsGetChecked, we are dedicated to supporting this journey by offering healthcare services that are accessible, inclusive, and confidential.

Learn more about Health Equity

References

  1. All statistics/references (1-5) taken from LetsGetChecked’s “Let’s Talk About Health Equity” 2024 report