People identifying as LGBTQ+ who have undergone conversion practice – commonly known as conversion therapy – are more likely to experience poor mental health, according to a study published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal. The findings – based on surveys of 4,426 LGBTQ+ adults in the USA – suggest people subjected to controversial practices targeting their gender identity or sexual orientation may be more likely to experience depression, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts or attempts. Transgender participants reported greater mental health symptoms overall.
Conversion practice is a formal, structured attempt to alter a person's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It often involves psychological, behavioral, physical, and faith-based practices. When looking at conversion practices aimed only at sexual orientation or practices aimed at both, cisgender and transgender people have a similarly increased likelihood of experiencing symptoms of depression and PTSD.
Suicidal thoughts or attempts were higher in cisgender participants subjected to both types of practices than in transgender participants, though it is unclear why, and more research is needed. Despite widespread opposition from professional medical and mental health organizations, conversion practice still occurs in parts of the USA. How often it is practiced in the USA remains unclear – previous research suggests it may be between 4% and 34% of LGBTQ+ people – but significant numbers of LGBTQ.
