What Does It Mean to Be ‘In the Closet?’
They keep their gender identity, or their sexuality, or both, a secret.
Closets are small, dark places that are considered private.
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Or they might not disclose it to anyone at all.
Though no specific person is credited with coining the term, it has been used since the late 1960s.
However, there are many people who exist in pockets of society wherebeing openly gay is unacceptable.
In these places, those who belong to the LGBTQIA+ community likely fear coming out.
That is a huge difference and one that can feel overwhelming.
The fear of a lack of family support can lead to high stress levels.
However, this doesn’t mean their quality of life is any better.
That can be a stressful notion, and it can prevent closeness to others.
What Happens to Your Mental Health When You’re in the Closet?
However, that isn’t always the case.
It depends greatly on what a person’s environment and support systems are.
There was disparity across genders, as well, with lesbians reporting overall better well-being than gay men.
Coming out of the closet is an individual choice.
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