MURAL - Maynooth University Research Archive Library



    LGBT + young people’s perceptions of barriers to accessing mental health services in Ireland


    Higgins, Agnes, Downes, Carmel, Murphy, Rebecca, Sharek, Danika, Begley, Thelma, McCann, Edward, Sheerin, Fintan, Smyth, Siobhán, De Vries, Jan and Doyle, Louise (2021) LGBT + young people’s perceptions of barriers to accessing mental health services in Ireland. Journal of Nursing Management, 29 (1). pp. 58-67. ISSN 0966-0429

    Abstract

    Aim: To explore the barriers to accessing mental health services in the Republic of Ireland from the perspectives of young LGBT + people aged 14–25. Background: Significant mental health disparities exist between LGBT + young people and their cisgender and heterosexual peers, yet they do not have equitable access to mental health services. Limited research has explored barriers, which exist for LGBTI + young people in accessing services, particularly from their perspectives. Method: An anonymous online survey design, consisting of closed and open questions, was used. The study was advertised through local and national organisations and media. 1,064 LGBT + participants aged 14–25 opted to complete the survey. Results: Most participants reported several barriers to them accessing mental health services that were interlinked across three levels: individual; sociocultural; and mental health system. Conclusion: Cultural competency training for practitioners, which address issues and concerns pertinent to LGBT + young people, is key to addressing many of the barriers identified. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers can use the findings to advocate for practice and organisational change within their services to ensure that care and support is responsive and sensitive to the particular needs of LGBT + young people.
    Item Type: Article
    Keywords: accessibility; adolescent; mental health services; sexual and gender minorities; young adult;
    Academic Unit: Assisting Living & Learning,ALL institute
    Subject Areas > Science & Engineering > Assisting Living & Learning,ALL institute
    Faculty of Science & Engineering > Research Institutes > Human Health Institute
    Faculty of Science & Engineering > School of Nursing
    Item ID: 21640
    Identification Number: 10.1111/jonm.13186
    Depositing User: Fintan Sheerin
    Date Deposited: 25 May 2026 15:51
    Journal or Publication Title: Journal of Nursing Management
    Publisher: Wiley
    Refereed: Yes
    Related URLs:
    Use Licence: This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

    Downloads

    Downloads per month over past year

    Origin of downloads

    Altmetric Badge

    Repository Staff Only (login required)

    Item control page
    Item control page