The mental health issues among gay and lesbian elders
Most gay and lesbian elders have experienced discrimination and stigmatization related to their sexual orientation in their life trajectory. These negative experiences may have had an impact on their life course and on their mental health. Even if the majority of gay and lesbian older adults actually have and maintain good mental health, studies show that non-heterosexual people are at a greater risk of developing certain difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and excessive consumption of alcohol and other substances. This article presents the factors that may weaken the mental health of older gay and lesbian people, such as victimization and the exposure to various forms of prejudice in their life course, the continuous management of the disclosure or dissimulation of their sexual orientation, the degree of internalized homophobia, as well as loneliness; and also presents the potential protective factors, such as building resilience, social networks and social support. This article concludes by illustrating the implications concerning the specific needs of the gay and lesbian elders. Some recommendations are also formulated with regards to recognizing the issues affecting gay and lesbian older adults as well as improving the services that are offered to them.