Is gayness a disease

A large body of scientific evidence indicates that being LGBTI lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersexual is completely compatible with a normal and healthy life. Clinical literature shows that same-sex sexual and romantic attractions, feelings and behaviours are sound.

They are perfectly acceptable variations of human sexuality. This list is reviewed regularly, in accordance with the latest medical research. InICD-9 still listed homosexuality as a disease. However, the WHO later removed the item from the list. The 43rd World Health Assembly endorsed that decision in May For example, homophobia can make teenagers feel harassed and hopeless — and that may add up to the symptoms of clinical depression.

Such second-order mental-health issues are being considered in the preparations for ICD Sexual orientation continues to be a contentious topic: internationally, expressions of same-sex orientation are stigmatised. This stigmatisation and the resulting discrimination may lead to mental-health problems — not homosexuality in itself.

The mental-health situation is much better in countries that protect the rights of LGBTI people — South Africa, where gay marriage is legal, is an example.

Behind the movement that brought homosexuality — and psychiatry's power — to a vote 50 years ago

Hauptnavigation EN. All monthly issues. Deutsch English. Mobile Service. Health Homosexuality is not a disease The stigmatisation and discrimination of gay people may lead to mental-health problems — but homosexuality in itself is not a mental-health problem.

Disability inclusion. Women's rights activists. Mental illness. Public transport. Press freedom. World Bank. Freedom of expression. Development financing. Social media.