LGBTQIA+ people in Aotearoa New Zealand are at an increased risk of depression anxiety, problematic substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and behaviours, and self-harm. Due to social exclusion and discrimination, higher rates of psychological distress are reported in Rainbow communities (Mental Health Foundation, 2020).
Let’s consider how to support someone facing mental health challenges at work, setting aside specific labels for a moment. I’m sure we all have strategies we use, but how might our approach shift when supporting someone from the Rainbow community?
According to Stats NZ (Retrieved 9 Nov 2021), the demographic and economic measures for the LGBT+ population showed:
- 4.4 percent of Aotearoa’s adult population identified as LGBT+ approximately 160,600 people
- people in the LGBT+ populations were over two times more likely than those not in the LGBT+ populations to experience daily feelings of depression.
In addition, Stats NZ (12 Nov 2021) stated, “a higher proportion of people in the LGBT+ population were identified as disabled when compared with the non-LGBT+ population (18.2 percent and 11.2 percent, respectively)”.
Furthermore, 64% of participants in a recent rainbow community survey said they thought about ending their life in the last 12 months (One news, 8 Dec 2022).
Scenario:
Jack shares with you that he’s in an abusive relationship with his male partner and says he feels exhausted and depressed from it. How would you support Jack as a colleague?
Here’s a possible approach:
Step 1: Acknowledge Jack’s Identity:
Be aware that Jack may or may not identify as LGBTQIA+, and he might not be comfortable being treated as a gay colleague due to potential discrimination or stigma. Avoid assumptions based on your own identity, even if you’re part of the Rainbow community.
For instance, Veale et al. (2019) reported that 57 % of transgender and non-binary people do not disclose their gender and sexuality in the workplace.
You might ask respectfully how he identifies, making it clear that he doesn’t have to answer if it’s too personal.
Step 2: Understand Jack’s Need:
Ask Jack directly what he needs and wants from you, without making assumptions based on a “gay colleague’s needs.” Focus on being a good listener to create a safe space for him.
Step 3: Encourage Professional Support:
Recognize that while some individuals have strong community support, others may feel isolated. Suggest professional support options like the EAP service (Instep). Jack might prefer a provider familiar with the Rainbow community.
Instep has providers who identify as part of the Rainbow community and are passionate about helping vulnerable individuals. If you need guidance on supporting your colleagues, we’re here to discuss options and ideas with you.
Written by Ai Kihara, Instep EAP Provider, identifies as non-binary. Mar 2025.
References
Mental health foundation. (2020). Rainbow communities, Mental Health and Addiction- Oranga Tangata, Oranga Whanau. www.mentalhealth.org.nz/assets/Our-Work/policy-advocacy/Rainbow-communities-and-mental-health-submission-to-the-Inquiry-into-Mental-Health-and-Addiction-08062018.pdf
One news. (2022). 64% of NZ’s rainbow community have thought about suicide – survey. https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/12/08/64-of-nzs-rainbow-community-have-thought-about-suicide-survey/
Stats NZ. (2021). LGBT+ population of Aotearoa: Year ended June 2021 | Stats NZ. https://www.stats.govt.nz/information-releases/lgbt-plus-population-of-aotearoa-year-ended-june-2021/
Stats NZ. (2021). LGBT+ population of Aotearoa: Year ended June 2020. https://www.stats.govt.nz/reports/lgbt-plus-population-of-aotearoa-year-ended-june-2020#anxiety
Veale J, Byrne J, Tan K, Guy S, Yee A, Nopera T & Bentham R. (2019). Counting Ourselves: The health and wellbeing of trans and non-binary people in Aotearoa New Zealand. Transgender Health Research Lab, University of Waikato: Hamilton NZ.
