As the U.S. hurtles toward the 2024 presidential election, LGBTQ+ Americans find themselves bracing—not just politically, but emotionally. This election cycle brings an unprecedented wave of policies and rhetoric that strike at the heart of queer and trans rights, turning the season into a mental health crisis for many in the community. The stakes are not abstract; the very essence of LGBTQ+ identity and safety is on the line, with fundamental rights and protections increasingly uncertain.
A Political Environment of Uncertainty
With LGBTQ+ rights on the political chopping block, heightened levels of anxiety and depression are palpable across the community. Anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric is more pervasive than in recent years, with policies threatening to roll back trans health care and protections for LGBTQ+ workers under Title IX. Organizations like The Trevor Project report significant increases in distress among queer youth facing constant threats to their identities, while older LGBTQ+ individuals grapple with the potential erosion of rights they’ve fought to establish1 2.
The Emotional Weight of an Election Season
Studies show that LGBTQ+ individuals, who already experience disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges, are particularly vulnerable during elections3 4. This year’s cycle has seen sharp increases in divisive discourse, with slurs and legislative measures attempting to drive LGBTQ+ lives out of public spaces. The heightened scrutiny and hostility can lead to exhaustion, increased anxiety, and a sense of marginalization5 6.
Community Support Efforts
To combat this strain, LGBTQ+ organizations and mental health advocates have stepped up. National support networks like Trans Lifeline offer tailored resources, while local groups host in-person events to provide connection and solidarity. Therapy networks are also reaching out to queer communities in politically charged areas, where access to affirming mental health care may be limited due to local anti-LGBTQ+ policies. Such community support is vital for those who find themselves overwhelmed by this high-stakes election season7 8.
Coping Strategies for Mental Health and Resilience
In high-stress situations like elections, managing mental health becomes crucial. The American Psychological Association (APA) and similar organizations recommend several adaptive coping strategies:
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Deep breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques help ground emotions and reduce cortisol, a primary stress hormone. Practicing these exercises can help individuals maintain calm and avoid feeling overwhelmed(APA).
- Build a Strong Support Network: The APA emphasizes the importance of social connections for managing stress. LGBTQ+-affirming spaces—whether online or in person—offer both emotional and practical support, and connection can help alleviate feelings of isolation(APA).
- Limit Media Consumption: Setting boundaries on news and social media intake, especially around divisive political issues, can reduce feelings of stress and overwhelm. The APA recommends taking breaks from political media to prevent burnout(APA).
- Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Regular physical activity, whether structured or informal, can relieve stress and provide mental clarity during difficult times(APA).
- Seek Professional Support When Needed: If stress or anxiety becomes overwhelming, reaching out to a mental health professional is essential. Organizations such as Therapy for Queer People of Color and The Trevor Project provide affirming mental health support tailored for the unique stressors facing LGBTQ+ individuals.
This election marks a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ Americans. With unprecedented visibility in the voting population, queer and trans individuals have a chance to shape the outcome like never before. But that visibility comes with heightened scrutiny and hostility. Finding resilience in 2024 means standing together, supporting each other, and building strength through community—even while prioritizing individual well-being.
- https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2024/10/the-election-could-push-lgbtq-mental-health-to-the-edge-queer-activists-are-fighting-for-a-lifeline/ ↩︎
- https://www.advocate.com/news/supreme-court-transgender-case-tennessee ↩︎
- https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/report-lgbtq ↩︎
- Ibid. ↩︎
- https://www.advocate.com/voices/title-ix ↩︎
- https://www.washingtonblade.com/2024/10/03/opinion-electing-harris-imperative-lgbtq-community/ ↩︎
- Ibid. ↩︎
- https://www.washingtonblade.com/2024/10/02/harris-campaign-ramps-up-lgbtq-engagement-as-election-day-nears/ ↩︎