The patient population of a no-cost, student-run LGBTQ + mental health clinic: A case for equitable and trauma-informed care

Introduction LGBTQ + individuals experience disproportionately high rates of mental health disorders. Subpopulations of this community experience unique risk factors and barriers to accessing care.Method This 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.Result Most 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.Conclusion Further research is needed to characterize vulnerable subpopulations to create equitable, accessible, and competent mental health care resources for the LGBTQ + community.