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@article{204585,
        author = {Dr Elizabeth Alexander and Ms. Arunthathi KP},
        title = {LGBTQ Youth Empowerment: Enhancing Mental Health, Inclusion, and Resilience Through Social Work Intervention},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {1},
        pages = {4740-4744},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=204585},
        abstract = {Background: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) youth experience disproportionate rates of mental health disparities due to systemic minority stress, social exclusion, and structural discrimination. Social work interventions are critical in mitigating these stressors by fostering inclusion and resilience.
Objectives: This study evaluates the mental health vulnerabilities of LGBTQ youth, identifies institutional and familial barriers to inclusion, and assesses the perceived efficacy of affirmative social work practices.
Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional design was adopted using purposive sampling (N = 60) among LGBTQ individuals aged 15–44 in Kerala, India. Data were gathered via a structured online questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: High rates of structural vulnerability were reported, with 83.3% of respondents facing identity-based discrimination or bullying, and 75% experiencing familial rejection. Furthermore, 83.3% encountered significant barriers to accessing tailored mental health support. Conversely, 88.4% affirmed that affirmative social work interventions positively impact mental health, and 86.7% emphasized that these practices are highly effective in fostering resilience.
Conclusion: The findings underscore a critical gap between the acute mental health needs of LGBTQ youth and the availability of affirmative, culturally competent care. Systemic policy overhauls within educational institutions and localized, strengths-based social work frameworks are urgently required to build sustainable protective environments.},
        keywords = {LGBTQ Youth; Empowerment; Minority Stress; Resilience; Social Work Interventions; Mental Health.},
        month = {June},
        }