16. LGBT experiences in medicine

Question 1

what do we have to be aware of that has not changed yet

Answer 1

the heteronormative, cis-normative cultural bedrock which still underpins core aspects of our soceity’s attitudes and sits patriatiarchal structures of masculinity, femininity

Question 2

invisibility

Answer 2

feeling unsafe to show our true self not that we do not exist

Question 3

what leads to people having the feeling of invisibility

Answer 3

lack of visible role models, symbols, inclusive language, communication a possible or real lack of safety in an environment

Question 4

garda hate crime stats 2022

Answer 4

29% increase in report hate crimes and incidents
2nd highest motive - sexual orientation

Question 5

general barriers in accessing mental health services; non LGBT specific barriers

Answer 5

• private counselling is too expensive
• fear of being labelled mentally ill
• fear of only being given medication

Question 6

LBGT+ specific barriers in accessing mental health services

Answer 6

• mental health pracitctioner were not sufficiently aware of LGBTI identities and appropriate language and terminology to use
• fear that a persons LGBTI identity would be seen as the problem

Question 7

triple trauma for all asylum seekers

Answer 7

• trauma in COI
• trauma of journey to Ireland
• trauma of international protection system

Question 8

additional trauma for LGBT+ asylum seekers

Answer 8

• living with harassment
• remaining closeted due to fear of harassment
• emotional, psychological isolation - stress of being closeted

Question 9

what is the impact of a heteronormative cisnormativity society on the minority

Answer 9

• fear of judgement
• not feeling safe to show who they are