The queers are all right: a content analysis of LGBTQIA + mental health on TikTok

The formation of online communities instils a sense of connectedness which can ameliorate the mental health concerns that result from minority stressors for lesbian, gay, queer, intersex, asexual, and other diverse genders/sexualities (LGBTQIA+). The aim of this study was to explore how LGBTQIA + people communicate social and mental health concerns on TikTok. It was anticipated that factors affecting mental health, such as minority stressors and community connectedness, would be addressed by the videos collected. Engagement statistics, demographics and content analysis were used to describe the 50 most-viewed videos across the top five related hashtags: #genderidentity, #lgbtqawareness, #sexualidentity, #lgbtmentalhealth, and #transmentalhealth. The content analysis indicates that TikTok is used as a way for members of the LGBTQIA + community to connect with each other and enhance feelings of community connectedness, which research shows may buffer the effects of minority stressors. Engagement with social media can be especially beneficial for those who may not be able to connect in the real-world. Further interactions, such as analysis of the comment section, should be investigated to develop a fuller understanding of how LGBTQIA + TikTok users respond to these contents.

It's not just in my head: An intersectional, social and systems-based framework in gender and sexuality diversity

BACKGROUND

The mental health and well-being of gender and sexuality diverse (GSD) people needs to be understood within a socio-political and cultural context.

AIMS

In this paper, an intersectional, social and system-based framework for understanding the mental health and well-being of GSD people is presented, for practitioners within this field to consider GSD mental health experiences and challenges within context.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Starting with a consideration of the current landscape of understanding, pivotal theories and understandings within the field are outlined. The need for a framework that centralises intersectionality and broader systemic considerations is presented.

RESULTS

The framework provided has an explicit focus on four key features: (1) intersectionality, (2) institutions, policies and laws, (3) people and groups and (4) social stories.

DISCUSSION

Consideration of each of these 'circles of influence' can help practitioners to understand the multi-layered and intersectional experience of GSD folk and allows for an understanding of potential intervention at both an individual and systemic and societal level.

CONCLUSION

Use of such a framework in practice goes above and beyond what is currently available by centralising the role and impact of such wider systemic variables through an intersectional lens. The framework can be applicable worldwide given its flexibility to consider and apply pertinent policies, laws, people, groups and social stories within a particular country or culture.