Anyone who identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex is being asked to take part in a study assessing the state of the nation's mental health services. Te Pou, which is the national centre for mental health research, has commissioned researchers at SHORE and Whariki Research Centre at Massey University to conduct a needs assessment of mental health services for GLBTI people in New Zealand, on behalf of the Health Ministry. The findings will help improve policy and services and promote mental health and wellbeing. Studies show GLBTI people are at greater risk than the general population for various disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. There is also a high risk of suicidal behaviour. Experts believe these may reflect several vulnerability factors, such GLBTI people being more likely to experience physical and verbal assault, bullying and workplace discrimination. To share your views and have a say go to www.shore.ac.nz/glbti.html
Credit: GayNZ,com Daily News staff
First published: Sunday, 12th September 2010 - 4:16pm