A qualitative exploration of the mental wellbeing of Maltese LGBTQ+ university students and acceptance within family, peers, and social circles

Abstract

Mental health issues have been shown to be more common in LGBTQ+ youths when compared to heterosexual cisgender youths. This study aimed to understand the process of disclosure of sexuality and gender identity in Maltese LGBTQ+ university students and explored dynamics within the individual’s family and social circles during this process. Furthermore, it aimed to elucidate insight into the views of the LGBTQ+ community on the social perception of sexualities and gender identities. 17 individuals from a University of Malta LGBTQ+ association were interviewed. The key finding from this study showed that the period of disclosure was frequently associated with anxiety or depression and that family acceptance may act as a protective factor which reduces anxiety and depression. Furthermore, transgender individuals appear to face more discrimination than gay people. This study concluded that more public awareness is needed to decrease LGBTQ+ stigma. Members within the LGBTQ+ community require more specialised support and counselling services. Further studies need to be carried out to analyse the importance of healthy family dynamics from an earlier age.