Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 5, 2025

Treatment Model for Young Patients with Psychogenic Erectile Dysfunction and Resultant Infertility
Published on: May 30, 2025
LGBT + young people's perceptions of barriers to accessing mental health services in Ireland
Agnes Higgins1, Carmel Downes1, Rebecca Murphy1,2
1School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
Aim:
To explore the barriers to accessing mental health services in the Republic of Ireland from the perspectives of young LGBT + people aged 14-25.
Background:
Significant mental health disparities exist between LGBT + young people and their cisgender and heterosexual peers, yet they do not have equitable access to mental health services. Limited research has explored barriers, which exist for LGBTI + young people in accessing services, particularly from their perspectives.
Method:
An anonymous online survey design, consisting of closed and open questions, was used. The study was advertised through local and national organisations and media. 1,064 LGBT + participants aged 14-25 opted to complete the survey.
Results:
Most participants reported several barriers to them accessing mental health services that were interlinked across three levels: individual; sociocultural; and mental health system.
Conclusion:
Cultural competency training for practitioners, which address issues and concerns pertinent to LGBT + young people, is key to addressing many of the barriers identified.
Implications For Nursing Management:
Nurse managers can use the findings to advocate for practice and organisational change within their services to ensure that care and support is responsive and sensitive to the particular needs of LGBT + young people.
Related Concept Videos
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...
Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Barriers to Effective Communication I
Communication barriers include the following:
Physiological barriers: They are limitations caused by a person's health condition or disability, such as hearing loss, poor eyesight, illness, or unconsciousness. An example to overcome this...
Bullying

