#USA #San Francisco #LGBTQ+ Youth #Hopelab #Born This Way Foundation

New Research on Rural LGBTQ+ Young People

In a recent research brief published by Hopelab and the Born This Way Foundation, significant insights were unveiled regarding the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth living in rural communities. This study sheds light on the unique challenges these individuals face and demonstrates the pivotal role that digital platforms play in providing emotional and social support.

Conducted with 1,267 LGBTQ+ youths aged 15-24, the research compares their experiences with those living in suburban and urban areas. As federal and state policies increasingly affect access to mental health services, the findings emphasize the essential nature of online communities for rural youth, who often contend with higher poverty rates and limited health resources.

Key Findings

1. Lack of Local Support

The study found that rural LGBTQ+ young people reported significantly less support from their schools, communities, and homes compared to their peers in suburban and urban settings. For instance, only 28% of rural youth felt supported by their schools, in contrast to 49% in urban locales. Similarly, only 13% of rural respondents felt supported by their community, compared to 35% in more urban areas.

2. Reliance on Digital Communities

Interestingly, the research shows that rural LGBTQ+ youth are more likely than their peers in suburban and urban areas to both give (76% vs. 70%) and receive (57% vs. 51%) support through online friendships and communities. The necessity of these digital spaces cannot be understated, as they provide critical connections and avenues for self-expression.

3. Mental Health Disparities

The findings reveal a concerning trend; rural LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to meet the criteria for depression (57% vs. 45%) and report lower overall well-being (43% vs. 52%). Yet, those who find support within their households are 50% more prone to flourish compared to those lacking such support (35%). This stark contrast underscores the importance of creating nurturing environments for youth.

4. Pride and Community Strength

Despite experiencing a lack of support in their immediate surroundings, rural LGBTQ+ individuals express a sense of pride strikingly comparable to their urban peers, with 85% reporting strong LGBTQ+ pride compared to 86% in urban areas. This highlights the resilience and strength within rural communities.

Research Background

This research forms part of a comprehensive study released in March 2025 and was designed through a collaborative process involving young people at each stage. The initiative aims to empower LGBTQ+ youths to share their unique experiences, ensuring their voices are central to conversations about their needs.

One participant, a white nonbinary young adult, reflected on the impact of online communities, stating, "Being neurodivergent and Queer in a small town in the South means you're not very likely to have any friends. Finding these people online was my first gateway to being treated like a normal person by my peers."

Taking into account the perspectives of these young individuals is vital for creating systemic changes that foster safe, supportive environments.

The Importance of Inclusion

Amy Green, Head of Research at Hopelab, emphasized that incorporating young people's insights is crucial in addressing the specific challenges faced by rural LGBTQ+ communities. Dr. Claudia-Santi F. Fernandes, from the Born This Way Foundation, echoed this sentiment, stating that understanding these youths' experiences is fundamental to enhancing their outcomes.

Both organizations aim to ensure that the voices of LGBTQ+ youth guide the efforts towards establishing affirming and safe spaces. This research is not just a collection of statistics; it aims to inspire tangible changes and create an ecosystem that uplifts youth, regardless of geographical location.

Conclusion

The findings from Hopelab and the Born This Way Foundation point to the critical importance of digital communities for LGBTQ+ youth in rural areas. As these individuals navigate the complexities of identity and mental health, it is imperative for families, educators, and community leaders to harness this research in fostering environments and policies that cultivate support, understanding, and inclusivity. By prioritizing the voices of these young individuals, we can work towards a future where all young people, irrespective of their backgrounds, are empowered to thrive.