LGBTQ+ college students facing discrimination report higher mental health risks

October 24, 2026 - 10:20

A new national study reveals that LGBTQ+ college students who encounter discrimination are significantly more likely to struggle with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. The research, conducted by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, Boston University School of Public Health, and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, also found that these students frequently avoid seeking necessary health care.

The findings highlight how discrimination on campus can compound existing mental health challenges for a population already at elevated risk. Researchers examined survey data from students across the country, comparing outcomes for those who reported discriminatory experiences with those who did not. The gap was substantial: students facing discrimination showed markedly higher rates of psychological distress and were more likely to skip medical appointments or forgo treatment altogether.

Avoidance of health care is particularly concerning, as it can prevent students from accessing counseling, preventive services, and other support that might buffer against worsening symptoms. The study authors suggest that institutions need to address discrimination directly, not only through policy but through creating safer, more inclusive campus environments where LGBTQ+ students feel comfortable seeking help.

The research adds to a growing body of evidence showing that social stigma and unequal treatment have measurable consequences for mental health. For colleges and universities, the message is clear: reducing discrimination is not just a matter of fairness but a public health priority.