LGBT health post by Barbara Warren and guest blogger Beth Monkarsh
A recent study out of University of Montreal and McGill University found that people who were open about their sexual orientation identity were less anxious, depressed and stressed than both heterosexuals and people in the “closet.” Persistent stress can cause the hormone cortisol to spike, creating inflammation in the body. Inflammation has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and other chronic illnesses.
This latest study supports other research on minority stress, or stress that is a reaction to being discriminated against, stigmatized or in some way harassed for being different; e.g. lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT). This study showed decreased cortisol levels and better health outcomes for those participants who were out as LGB when it occurred in a safe and positive environment.
A Supportive Environment for LGBT Patients and Families
At Continuum Health Partners, we strive to create a safe and supportive space for our LGBT patients and their families. Among our efforts are inclusive policies, educational training for our providers on LGBT cultural competency, and the creation of the LGBT Health Services Department at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. We want to ensure that our patients feel comfortable being out to their providers because we recognize how important it is to our patients’ health and well-being.
Making It Safer for New Yorkers to Come Out
Its LGBT PRIDE Month and the the Supreme Court decision on the elimination of the Defense of Marriage Act, which bars federal recognition of legal same-sex marriages, is historic. As we celebrate the the results of marriage equality rulings in the Supreme Court, it is important to remember that we still need equal protection for everyone under New York State law.
April 30 was LGBT Equality and Justice Day in New York. The occasion helped remind us that back when SONDA (Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act) was passed in 2001, lesbians, gays and bisexuals promised to ensure that their transgender brothers and sisters would also be protected from discrimination. Now is the time for the New York State Senate to pass GENDA (Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act), which would outlaw discrimination based upon gender identity or expression.
In 2013, New Yorkers deserve to be out, deserve to be safe and deserve to be themselves without fear of reprisal. If you are LGBT, being out and affirmed is healthy, and here at Continuum, we take pride in your health.
To find an excellent doctor who is right for you, please call our Physician Referral Service at 866.804.1007.