According to a study published in the journal LGBT Health, gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth were found to be at a far greater risk of sleep problems than their heterosexual counterparts. The study surveyed more than 8,500 youth, aged 10-14 years old, which is a critical time for mental, social, and physical development. Researchers concluded that 35.1% of those who identified as a sexual minority self-reported trouble falling or staying asleep in the previous two week, compared to 13.5% of heterosexual-identifying youth in the same survey.  

The report concluded that sexual minority status may be linked to sleep disturbance in early adolescence. Sleep health for sexual minority youth was also connected to disparities in depressive problems, stress, family conflict, and less parental monitoring. 

“LGBTQOA+ kids face higher levels of bullying, both physical and verbal, during their school days which has a profound negative effect on their mental health and well-being,” said John Sovec, a psychotherapist and author who specializes in working with LGBT teens and their families during the coming out process. “These high levels of stress can make it challenging to get a good night’s rest.” 

Coming out is a high stress experience for queer youth, especially with the evolving and changing climate against LGBTQ rights, access to healthcare, and attacks on the community from conservative groups. Queer youth are experiencing greater fear, resulting in additional stress on their mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. All these items connect directly to poor sleep patterns.  

“Due to lack of support and fear, many LGBTQ+ youth are underperforming and having attendance issues in school environments which can be exacerbated by a lack of quality sleep,” added Sovec. 

It is important to talk openly with LGBTQ+ youth about sex, acceptance, and the coming out process, including discussing the wider-range of lesser-known orientations like pansexuality and asexuality. 

Learn more about how you can talk to youth about coming out.