Mental Health Challenges in Professional Environments

Written by Graham Gallivan

The topic of mental health has become commonplace, which is excellent for those who are struggling. The more we speak about it, the less weight the stigma carries. It is of high importance in both social and professional realms.

For those who identify as LGBTQIA+, however, there is often a missing piece to the puzzle. No matter how far we’ve come in addressing mental health, the work environment can still be a trigger for stress, anxiety, and exclusion.

Here, we’ll explore the challenges still present in professional environments and discuss potential solutions.

The Reality of Discrimination

No matter what company you work for or the industry you work in, the concept of discrimination is still a very real thing. LGBTQIA+ employees are more likely to be mistreated in the workplace compared to their heterosexual counterparts. This could be simply being excluded from a conversation to being overlooked for a promotion, all the way to any form of harassment.

These little (or big) acts of discrimination are unfair, uncomfortable, and set the wrong tone. As the employee, you’re at a greater risk for chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression. If you’re constantly made to feel less than or unsupported, you’re exposed to a volatile work environment.

Fear of Being Unapologetically You

A huge challenge that many LGBTQIA+ people face is this pressure to hide. You fear letting your true personality s ow. Perhaps you fear making any kind of waves that could have a negative impact, simply because of how you identify. Maybe it’s avoiding using your desired pronouns in fear of how your colleagues will react.

Masking your identity or personality in any way is harmful and takes a toll. You shouldn’t have to choose your respect, your professional growth, or the existence of your job over being honest to yourself. Unfortunately, that’s the reality for many.

The Multi-Layered Challenges for LGBTQIA+

The landscape for discrimination and the added challenges make mental health matters more intense for those who are LGBTQ A+. If you fall into another minority or marginalized group, this can be even more complex.

Women face an inequality in pay and position compared to male counterparts. Trans and non-binary individuals may not have access to the necessary facilities or resources. BIPOC individuals may also have to deal with racism in the workplace.

The overlap in discrimination makes it exceptionally hard to navigate the correct route to happiness and success.

Support is Still Lacking

There have been many strides made towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (or DEI) in the workplace. Sadly, much of that progress came to a screeching halt, if not a few steps back, due to the tumultuous political climate.

While support is still available, it is often inadequate for the extent of the obstacles. Very few workplaces address the issues that are unique to the LGBTQIA+ community. Employee resource groups are few and far between. Mentorship for this group is lacking.

What Can Be Done?

Mental health in the workplace is often a hidden challenge for many. This extends beyond inclusion to the concept of a culture of care.

It’s essential to build your own support system. Find allies who are inclusive and trustworthy. If there is no resource group, consider starting your own. You may want to consider external support options through community or local organizations.

Know your rights when it comes to any company policies. There should be provisions related to anti-discrimination and harassment. If you are a victim of unethical practices, keep documentation of the events.

If you are facing mental health challenges in the workplace, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Consider working with a LGBTQIA+ therapist who understands the unique set of challenges the LGBTQIA+ community faces. Contact me to begin your journey.

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