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A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that bisexual and transgender people are nearly twice as likely to experience loneliness compared to their straight and cisgender counterparts.

Bisexual, Trans People, and Loneliness

The CDC's study analyzed data from the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which gathers information on health risk behaviors, preventive health practices, and healthcare access. The research focused on the connection between loneliness, lack of social and emotional support, and various mental health factors. The findings indicated that loneliness was notably high among bisexual adults at 56.7%, and among transgender individuals, it ranged from 56.4% to 63.9%.

Mental Health Challenges

The study also highlighted that loneliness is not the only mental health challenge faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Specifically, 34.3% of bisexual adults and up to 37.8% of transgender adults reported feelings of stress, whereas only 12.6% of straight adults and 13.9% of cisgender adults reported the same. Additionally, 54.4% of bisexual adults and up to 67.2% of transgender adults had a history of depression, compared to 19.4% of straight adults and 21.4% of cisgender adults. Depression rates were also notably higher, with 54.4% of bisexual adults and up to 67.2% of transgender adults reporting a history of depression, compared to 19.4% of straight adults and 21.4% of cisgender adults.

Expert Insights

Dr. Adjoa Smalls-Mantey, a psychiatrist based in New York, emphasized that the study's findings align with her experiences with LGBTQ+ patients. She noted that many LGBTQ+ people often feel isolated and may avoid sharing their identities with those closest to them, leading to further isolation. Dr. Judith Joseph, a psychiatrist and clinical assistant professor at NYU Health, advised LGBTQ+ individuals to engage in social interactions outside the home, suggesting that even small conversations with store clerks or baristas can help reduce feelings of loneliness.

Health Implications

The study underscores the health risks associated with loneliness and social isolation, such as increased susceptibility to heart disease, stroke, and premature death from various causes, including obesity and smoking. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving the mental and physical health of LGBTQ+ members.