The Patient Population of a No-Cost, Student-Run LGBTQ + Mental Health Clinic: A Case for Equitable and Trauma-Informed Care

IntroductionLGBTQ + individuals experience disproportionately high rates of mental health disorders. Subpopulations of this community experience unique risk factors and barriers to accessing care.MethodThis study analyzes chart review data of patients (n = 49) of an LGBTQ+-specific, student-run, free mental health clinic in NYC between March 2019 and July 2021.ResultMost common diagnoses were mood disorders (55%) and anxiety disorders (53%). Eighty-eight percent of patients reported experiencing lifetime traumatic events; 20% of patients met criteria for PTSD.ConclusionFurther research is needed to characterize vulnerable subpopulations to create equitable, accessible, and competent mental health care resources for the LGBTQ + community.