From The Hill: Research shows that LGBT individuals experience higher rates of physical and mental health problems than heterosexual people. Legislative policies that protect the rights of LGBT people to be free from discrimination and violence can greatly contribute to their health and well-being.
“A supportive climate characterized by policies granting equal rights and prohibiting discrimination reduces stigma and stress, serving a protective role for mental and physical health. A nationally representative study found that the implementation of policies permitting same-sex marriage was associated with a 7 percent decrease in adolescent suicide attempts. Other research found that the legalization of same-sex marriage was linked to reduced rates of seeking medical and mental health care among sexual minority men. Also, workplaces that have implemented LGBT-supportive policies have benefited from improved health among those employees, as well as greater job commitment, job satisfaction and productivity.”