Coming out is a rite of passage for members of the LGBTQ community. But what if it were more than just a milestone?
Researchers at the University of Montreal wanted to answer that question in their 2013 study, “Health benefits of coming out of the closet demonstrated.”
By looking at self-reported anxiety questionnaires, stress hormone levels, and biological markers like blood pressure and insulin, researchers found that lesbians, gays, and bisexuals who were out had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. In addition, they reported fewer symptoms of anxiety, depression, and burnout than those who were closeted.
Put simply, being out is better for physical and mental health.
But what explains these findings? In honor of National Coming Out Day on October 11th, we dive into why being out is better for LGBTQ mental health.
1. Coming out can reduce anxiety and depression
Coming out, as the University of Montreal study showed, is correlated with lower levels of anxiety and depression.
While the study’s authors didn’t try to explain why people who are out have better mental health, we can make some hypotheses based on other research.
Anyone who’s been in the closet knows it’s an incredibly nerve-wracking experience, filled with fears of being discovered, rejected by friends or family, and judged by others, to name just a few.
This constant anxiety has been correlated with panic attacks and depression. It stands to reason that being out alleviates, or at least reduces, some of these fears.
Another aspect of being in the closet is having to lie — not only about sexual orientation or gender identity but also about interests, activities, and romantic partners. One lie often leads to another, and keeping them all straight requires an enormous mental effort that contributes to feelings of anxiety.
But closeted LGBTQ people don’t just lie about what they like and how they spend their free time. Often, they lie to avoid the emotions and challenges of being part of a sexual and/or gender minority. In many cases, this also contributes to feelings of anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, coming out means freedom from lying. Some even liken the process to removing a heavy burden.
2. Coming out is empowering
There’s a reason it’s called being “in the closet” and not “in the roomy four-bedroom penthouse.” Concealing sexual and/or gender identity is a restrictive, isolating experience.
Indeed, LGBTQ people liken the experience of being in the closet to feeling trapped. Others say it’s like putting on an act or impersonating someone.
Whereas staying in the closet means living life according to other peoples’ rules, coming out is an opportunity for LGBTQ people to be clear about who they are and how they want to live their lives.
Having the confidence to live authentically is perhaps the most empowering thing someone can do. Research shows a correlation between feeling empowered and better mental health outcomes.
3. Coming out means finding an authentic sense of self
Many LGBTQ people go through phases of denying or ignoring their sexual orientation or gender identity, often due to internalized homophobia, shame, or fear.
For some, this means that homoerotic feelings, attractions, and fantasies feel so unacceptable that they’re pushed out of conscious awareness. By ignoring these parts of their identity, life might feel more manageable — at least temporarily.
In the long term, though, hiding such a central part of oneself can be painful. Research shows that concealing one’s sexual orientation or gender identity makes it harder to recognize personal strengths and feel ownership of achievements, both of which are linked to lower self-esteem.
On the other hand, coming out allows people to embrace their true identity. Many describe it as “coming home” or “connecting with the true self.”
4. Coming out builds community
Connecting with people who share similar experiences, values, and interests — even online — helps build trust and confidence. These connections can also become a support system, which is essential for feeling accepted, respected, and valued. This support leads to better mental health for LGBTQ individuals.
Come As You Are at La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center
Coming out is a defining moment for many LGBTQ people, but it’s just one of the many challenges our community faces that can lead to substance use as a way to cope. At La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center, we’re here to support you in embracing your LGBTQ identity and managing the daily stressors that often contribute to substance abuse.
We’ve built a community that understands and shares these experiences and our judgment-free space invites every patient to show up authentically.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, then contact us now.
