Distribution of mental health diagnoses in relation to sexual orientation and gender dysphoria in a late adolescent community population

Abstract

Abstract Background Few population studies have assessed the prevalence of various psychiatric disorders separately for sexual minority groups, and none in an adolescent population. Given the increased mental health problems in sexual minority groups combined, the present study aimed to describe prevalence of mental disorders in separate minority groups in community-recruited adolescents in Sweden.Methods The present study is based on two waves (at 17 and 18 years of age) of a longitudinal cohort study (N = 949; 56% girls). Diagnostic data of 20 mental health disorders (psychiatric, substance use, and addictive behavior disorders) for each group of sexual orientation (asexual, homosexual, bisexual, and heterosexual) and gender dysphoria are reported, based on structured screening and subsequent diagnostic procedures.Results The largest prevalence of mental health disorders were detected in homosexual girls and in bisexuals of both genders. Among asexual individuals, and among homosexual boys, none of the participants fulfilled the mental health disorders assessed. Gender dysphoria was associated with a moderately higher number of mental health disorders.Conclusion Mental health services, both in specialized psychiatry and in community-based services targeting the mental health of adolescents, may need a particular focus on the screening and treatment of mental health disorders in bisexual individuals and in female homosexual individuals. Further research with larger samples is essential to better understand mental health in asexual individuals, young male homosexuals, and transgender populations.