You may feel misunderstood by your friends, not accepted by your family, or experience discrimination.
The last thing you need is to internalize negative ideas about your identity.
Unfortunately, something like internalized homophobiawhich can encompass a range of negative attitudes toward homosexualityis all too common.
The Good Brigade / DigitalVision / Getty
As you’re able to expect, internalized homophobia has negative consequences for those who suffer from it.
Factors Contributing to Internalized Homophobia
There is no single life circumstance that causes us to internalize homophobia.
Rather, any variety of factors may lead us to feel negatively about ourselves.
Here are some reasons for this phenomenon.
Religious Beliefs and Teachings
Many religions have come a long way in recent years.
You might see women rabbis, or churches withrainbow flagsoutside them.
Minor says that feelings ofshamemay also accompany internalized homophobia.
Additionally, internalized homophobia may lead to depression and anxiety.
You don’t have to live in this negative mindset.
Instead, there are steps you might take to make your mindset a more healthy and loving one.
Minor says that to overcome this, we first must acknowledge and recognize the problem.
Then, they recommend therapy.
Finding community can also be very beneficial.
The media you consume can also help you move past your internalized homophobia.
“Practicing self-compassion and challengingnegative self-beliefsis key to moving towards self-love and acceptance,” says Minor.
Developing a positive self-image is possible.
Getting involved in community, from virtual to in-person, can help us foster our sense of pride.
You may choose to engage in advocacy or activism, or just attend a Pride event.
Minor notes that “this journey is personal and unique to each individual.”
This is a journey, not a destination!
Do whatever feels right for you, whenever it does, provided you feel safe doing so.
Conclusion
Internalized homophobia has numerous causes, many of them based in our surroundings and environment.
It negatively impacts our mental health, leading to everything from depression to suicidal ideation.
Thankfully, we can turn our negative thoughts about our identity around.
We all deserve love, both from ourselves and from others.
2009;56(1):97-109.
2021;21(1):971.
2003;22(2):15-30.
