A professional perspective of the barriers faced by lesbian, gay and bisexual adolescents seeking mental health services in the Maltese islands

Abstract

This study investigates the barriers faced by LGB adolescents in accessing mental health services in the Maltese islands, aiming to provide insight into their experiences and suggest improvements. Several key findings emerged through semi-structured interviews with professionals working with these adolescents in the mental health field. Firstly, both literature and this study’s findings, exhibit a prevalent lack of awareness among professionals regarding the full spectrum of sexualities, often viewing LGB individuals through a binary lens, which hinders adolescents' willingness to seek help. Moreover, societal stigma, particularly targeting bisexual adolescents, contributes to fear and negatively impacts mental health outcomes. However, inclusive outreach strategies show promise in mitigating stigma and facilitating access to services. Legal and policy barriers further complicate service accessibility, particularly for minors, creating uncertainty for professionals. Additionally, LGB adolescents often find themselves educating professionals due to their lack of cultural competence, leading to discomfort and distrust. Professional self-disclosure of queer identity can build rapport when used appropriately, validating adolescents' experiences. Socio-economic disparities also play a role, with low SES adolescents facing financial and societal barriers. Recommendations for future research include expanding services to better accommodate queer adolescents, exploring ways to improve support within the educational system, and conducting longitudinal studies to understand resilience among LGB youth. Moreover, there is a need for specialised training on diverse sexual expressions and exposure to queer stories for professionals to enhance cultural competence. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of addressing barriers to mental health care for LGB adolescents and suggest avenues for improvement in service provision and societal attitudes.