It's not just in my head: An intersectional, social and systems-based framework in gender and sexuality diversity

Abstract

Background: The mental health and well-being of gender and sexuality diverse (GSD) people needs to be understood within a socio-political and cultural context. Aims: In this paper, an intersectional, social and system-based framework for understanding the mental health and well-being of GSD people is presented, for practitioners within this field to consider GSD mental health experiences and challenges within context. Materials and Methods: Starting with a consideration of the current landscape of understanding, pivotal theories and understandings within the field are outlined. The need for a framework that centralises intersectionality and broader systemic considerations is presented. Results: The framework provided has an explicit focus on four key features: (1) intersectionality, (2) institutions, policies and laws, (3) people and groups and (4) social stories. Discussion: Consideration of each of these ‘circles of influence’ can help practitioners to understand the multi-layered and intersectional experience of GSD folk and allows for an understanding of potential intervention at both an individual and systemic and societal level. Conclusion: Use of such a framework in practice goes above and beyond what is currently available by centralising the role and impact of such wider systemic variables through an intersectional lens. The framework can be applicable worldwide given its flexibility to consider and apply pertinent policies, laws, people, groups and social stories within a particular country or culture.