There is much evidence revealing the destructive impact of homophobia on gay people. High rates of suicide and use of recreational drugs and alcohol are the potent indicators of their psychological trauma. Yet according to research by Dr Ron Stall of the University of Pittsburgh, having survived the prejudice of their younger years, gay people are more likely to thrive as they grow older. [...]
We “come out” about how we really think or feel; our profoundest loves and hates; our odd and surprising secrets. Coming out captures the essence of who we really are when doing so flies in the face of convention as it does profoundly for gay people sharing their sexual identity with others. Such truth telling is referred to as self-actualisation. This helps us to grow and develop as it means we have removed the mask of trying to fit in. Coming out is the courage to go against the grain.
According to Michael King, professor of primary care at UCL, gay resilience is the result of finding useful survival strategies while facing prejudice. Gay men often keep strong friendship groups into later life. As we age, keeping friendships going is key to our mental health and ability to thrive. And it’s something older straight men need to become better at. Men are more vulnerable to loneliness and depression after the loss of a partner than women. Feeling connected makes us stronger and increases our wellbeing.
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