LGBTQ+ Survivors & Barriers to Seeking Support

People in the LGBTQ+ communities experience a higher rate of sexual violence due to stigma, marginalization, poverty, and hate-motivated offenses. While seeking support for any traumatic experience, there are already tough barriers that have to be faced such as not being believed when coming forward. Unfortunately, in addition to these obstacles, the LGBTQ+ communities have even more barriers to encounter. 

Starting off with disclosing their identities or sexual orientation. The fear of being discriminated against or being denied help can give LGBTQ+ hesitation to seek support or report. Additionally, if the survivor proceeds with asking for support and isn’t taken seriously or not given inclusive care, this can further the trauma they have experienced and hold them back from seeking support in the future.