Over half of LGBTQ+ adults have felt isolated from family and friends due to sexuality
More than half of LGBTQ+ adults have felt isolated from their family due to their sexuality or gender identity – but some did feel better after coming out, a study has found.A poll of 500 LGBTQ+ adults found 57% felt they had no-one to turn to after coming out, with 49% also feeling isolated from their friends.As a result, despite 38% feeling relieved and 32% feeling happy after disclosing their true feelings, over a quarter (26%) were left feeling vulnerable, while 17% felt alone.Worryingly, 16% feel unable to reach out to friends or family when they need to speak about personal problems.For some, their relationship has only worsened since they came out as LGBTQ+ with their family (14%) and friends (30%).But 25% said their relationship is now better than it was before.It also found 63% feel a lack of kindness at the time made a difference to how they felt after coming out.The stats emerged in a study by Fairy and Ariel, to mark its #SpreadTheLove campaign in partnership with youth homelessness charity akt, ahead of Pride Month.A spokesman for the laundry and washing up brands said: “Things have not been easy over the past two years, so it’s important we don’t underestimate how valuable a simple act of love and support can be to someone who may need it.“This survey shows inclusivity, acceptance and kindness go hand-in-hand with one another – and the simple act of showing someone you care can really help brighten up someone’s day.“Our family, be that blood relatives or our chosen family, play an important role in our happiness, and showing them you care about them goes a long way.“This might be as simple as having an open conversation at home, which can seem more relaxed over dinner or even while doing the household.
