Conversion therapy, a harmful practice rooted in pseudoscience, aims to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. This discredited approach has long been denounced for its detrimental effects.
A comprehensive study further validated the damaging consequences of this so-called therapy. The findings revealed that young LGBTQ individuals subjected to conversion therapy were significantly more likely to confront “serious” mental health challenges.
These findings emphasize the urgent need to ban conversion therapy and promote acceptance and support for LGBTQ individuals. The detrimental effects associated with this destructive practice highlight the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone to thrive.
Among the recipients, the study observed alarming statistics: 47% experienced severe psychological distress, compared to 34% of LGBTQ individuals who did not undergo conversion therapy. Moreover, 65% battled depression, as opposed to 27% in the non-therapy group. Substance abuse affected 67% of the recipients, whereas 50% of non-recipients reported the same struggle. Most distressingly, 58% of those subjected to conversion therapy attempted suicide, compared to 39% among non-recipients.
Published in JAMA Pediatrics, this study conducted from December 1, 2020, to February 15, 2021, is a systematic review of conversion therapy documentation. The research highlighted adverse events associated with therapy, including anxiety, distress, depression, substance abuse, suicide attempts, and fatalities. Out of 190,695 LGBTQ individuals, 12% received conversion therapy. The average age of individuals subjected to this practice was 25 years. Additionally, an estimated 508,892 youths were at risk for conversion therapy last year, highlighting potential unreported cases.
The study found that those exposed to conversion therapy reported higher rates of suicidal ideation, suicide plans, and suicide attempts than those not exposed. The authors conclude that this evidence suggests a clear association between receiving conversion therapy and an increased risk of suicidal behaviour.
This necessitated the call for policymakers to consider laws that protect LGBTQ people against conversion therapy as well as providing access to resources and support for those subjected to conversion therapy.
Doing so can help ensure that everyone has the chance to live a safe, authentic life without fear of discrimination or harm.
The Urban Woman Magazine Editorial Team is made up of seasoned writers and editors who have a keen eye for detail and a passion for all things urban. We strive to create fresh, original content that appeals to the modern woman. Our mission is to provide a platform for women to share their stories, experiences and opinions on various issues affecting their lives.
