A Review of Online Versus Offline Social Support on Queer Mental Health

Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

Previous research has consistently shown that the LGBTQ+ community has negative mental health outcomes due to a multitude of reasons. Both in-person and online social support have been found to significantly decrease negative mental health outcomes for queer youth. More specifically, both forms of social support have been found to decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Some research has suggested that online social support is not as effective as offline due to online harassment and bullying, while other research has suggested that the support provided nullifies any negative impacts. This review will explain the previous findings for online and in-person social support and how they impact queer mental health. Additionally, this review will call attention to gaps in the literature and how current findings can be applied in the real world.

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