This review is intended to give an overview of psychiatric considerations for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) population. The history of LGBT-related diagnoses in the DSM is discussed along with the epidemiology of various mental disorders in the LGBT population, with several diagnoses having a higher incidence including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation or attempt. To explain these discrepancies, several theories and models are explored, specifically the minority stress model and adverse childhood events. Additionally, recommendations for clinical psychiatric practice are explored including affirmative therapy and transgender-affirming cognitive behavioral therapy, two interventions specifically studied in the LGBT population as well as overall goals of treatment when treating patients struggling with their gender identity.
This review contains 5 tables, and 35 references.
Key Words: adverse childhood events, affirmative therapy, bisexual, gay, lesbian, LGBT, minority stress, transgender, transgender-affirming cognitive behavioral therapy
