The mental health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) refugees: A scoping review

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) refugees often experience discrimination, resulting in high rates of trauma. This scoping review examined the mental health challenges and treatment recommendations for LGBT refugees. Method Six databases for peer reviewed articles were searched resulting in inclusion of 27 studies. Eight health guidelines databases, two government document databases, and Google were searched for grey literature resulting in inclusion of nine pieces of grey literature. Categories identified were trauma, mental illness, psychosocial challenges, improving service utilization, recommendations for clinical practice, and social interventions. Result Psychosocial challenges such as resettlement difficulties, lack of support, and social exclusion were highlighted. Interventional strategies were identified. Conclusion LGBT refugees have unique and complex mental health needs. Mental health professionals should utilize specific interventions to improve outcomes for this population.