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Minority stress is an extended phenomenon and, according to Ilan Meyer, is characterised by three basic features: uniqueness, chronicity and social conditioning.

Uniqueness in this case is understood as an additional stressor for the minority group in question and creates a significant psychological burden. It affects only the social group in question and not the social group as a whole.

• Chronicity results in minority stress being experienced virtually all the time.
• Social conditioning results from social structures, institutions or processes that are outside the person.

Two categories of factors that cause minority stress can be mentioned: distal and proximal.

• Distal factors are those external and objective factors that are consequences of prejudices, living conditions or social structures. These consequences are violence, both physical and psychological, which is motivated by hatred, e.g. rejection, exclusion (microaggressions).
• Proximal factors are those internal and subjective ones that include living in hiding, the expectation of rejection and internalised homophobia (prejudice against one’s orientation or sexual identity).

The majority group stigmatises and categorises people with different attitudes etc. People who are discriminated against by the majority group try to defend themselves in some way, e.g. through defence mechanisms, which can be irrational and frustrating. Individuals wishing to avoid stigmatisation and discrimination are controlling and vigilant about what they say to other people e.g. they do not talk about their partners. They may also expect negative reactions from society to information about their different orientation or sexual identity. It may also happen that a person belonging to a minority group will stigmatise and burden themselves with unpleasant emotions, just because they do not belong to the majority group. This person may also discriminate against the minority group with which he or she identifies.

Have you ever experienced:

– avoiding relationship topics,

-controlling what you say and how you say it,

-not expressing yourself in the way you would like to, e.g. through your clothes,

-not revealing your views,

-strengthen your vigilance to defend yourself against ‘attacks’ from others,

-recognise society’s beliefs as your own,

-hide or deny your identity and sexual orientation.

Minority stress can lead to:

• depression,
• sleep disorders,
• mood disorders,
• psychosomatic symptoms,
• difficulties in partner relationships,
• difficulties with sexual functioning
• lower self-esteem,
• substance abuse,
• increased feelings of anxiety and guilt
• suicidal thoughts
• self-mutilation.

Here it should be emphasised that the above factors are not caused by sexual orientation, but by the minority stress experienced by the person in question. The causes of psychological difficulties are: stigmatisation, prejudice, pathologisation, isolation, homophobia or violence (micro-aggressions, micro-bullying). Of course, the fact that someone is in a minority group does not cause disorders or problems in such a person, but it can be a risk factor. On the other hand, being part of a minority group is a source of support for other group members who may have similar problems or difficulties. In such a group you can count not only on support, but also on a sense of community, understanding, overcoming isolation or help. Your life experiences are relevant and real. You don’t have to struggle with them alone. That’s why it’s important to seek support not only from loved ones, but also from people who specialise in LGBTQIA+ topics, to create your own support network, to be an ally and an inclusive person.