Aspects of mental health among older lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults

A. R. D'Augelli, A. H. Grossman, S. L. Hershberger, T. S. O'Connell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study examined aspects of mental health among 416 lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults aged 60 to 91 years old, attending social and recreational programs. Mental health indicators were perceived mental health status; self-esteem; internalized homophobia; loneliness; alcohol and drug abuse; and suicidality. Better mental health was correlated with higher self-esteem, less loneliness, and lower internalized homophobia. Compared to women, men reported significantly more internalized homophobia, alcohol abuse, and suicidality related to their sexual orientation. Less lifetime suicidal ideation was associated with lower internalized homophobia, less loneliness, and more people knowing about participants' sexual orientation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)149-158
Number of pages10
JournalAging and Mental Health
Volume5
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Phychiatric Mental Health
  • Gerontology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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