In this assignment, you will develop two separate infographics (informative posters) to discuss two separate health issues relevant to the LGBT communities. In each infographic you will discuss:
What is the health problem?
Which group(s) are most likely to be at risk?
What social/behavioral/health system determinants affect this?
Identify at least two potential interventions/activities the community, community health agency, community health nurse could offer to prevent and or support this health issue
What resistance might be met in implementing the intervention/activity?
The modern world has people with diverse characteristics, social beliefs, cultural norms, and behaviors. These individuals have attributes that set them apart. For instance, LGBTQ individuals employ various terms to identify themselves and their communities. Their understanding of sexuality and gender is different from other members of society.
Health Problem 1: Mental Health Disparities
This health problem is common among the members of the LGBTQ community. It refers to the unequal prevalence and impact of mental health issues in gays, lesbians, transgender, etc. LGBT individuals experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation more often than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts.
At Risk Groups: LGBT youths and transgender individuals are more vulnerable to mental health problems caused by discrimination, stigma, family rejection, and societal bias. They face challenges that contribute to humiliation, emotional abuse, and isolation, leading to mental disorders like stress and depression.
Social/Behavioral/Health System Determinants:
- Social factors: Discrimination, stigma, and social isolation can contribute to mental health problems
- Behavioral Determinants: Higher rates of substance abuse and risky behaviors to cope with discrimination or mental health issues
- Health factors: Limited access to culturally competent mental healthcare and insurance coverage worsen their situations.
Potential Interventions/Activities:
- Counseling and Support Groups: Community health agencies can offer LGBT-friendly counseling services and support to create a safe space for individuals to discuss their mental health concerns and receive the necessary treatment.
- Anti-Stigma Campaigns: People can build awareness and understanding of LGBT mental health issues through education campaigns, media, and online platforms to reduce societal stigma and discrimination.
Resistance to Implementation: Anti-LGBT Individuals or organizations have conservative beliefs that oppose LGBT-affirmative practices. As a result, some entities might not invest their resources in LGBT-specific mental health programs. Cultural and religious biases may prevent people from accepting and implementing such interventions/schemes.
Health Problem 2: HIV/AIDS Prevalence and Prevention
HIV/AIDS remains a common health problem among LGBTQ communities. Gays and transgender women are more vulnerable to contracting HIV than other adults of reproductive age.
Vulnerable Groups: Gay and transgender individuals, especially people of color, are more likely to contract HIV infection due to unprotected sex and limited access to healthcare services.
Social/Behavioral/Health Factors
- Social Determinants: Stigma, discrimination, and lack of adequate sex education can contribute to risky behaviors. These forces prompt LGBT individuals to engage in drug abuse, unhealthy sex, and self-harming activities.
- Behavioral Determinants: High-risk sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sex and multiple partners, increase exposure to HIV infection and other diseases.
- Health System Determinants: Limited access to affordable and culturally competent care. Since LGBTQ people experience stigma and discrimination, they might fail to seek HIV testing, treatment, and prevention services.
Potential Interventions/Activities:
- HIV Education and Testing: Community health agencies can offer free and confidential HIV testing and implement programs to educate people about safe sex practices and provide Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.
- Support and Outreach: Organizations and people can engage the LGBT community to outreach and support individuals living with HIV. This approach would allow them to refer LGBT individuals to culturally competent medical care and social services.
Challenges: Cultural or religious beliefs create a stigmatizing environment for people who engage in homosexuality or drug use. Some communities discourage promoting safe sex practices to maintain their conservative values. Besides, budget constraints and limited resources may impede or prevent people from implementing comprehensive HIV prevention and support programs.
