This Top Health Issues for LGBT Populations Information & Resource Kit, provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), presents an overview of current health issues among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations. While many challenges exist with regards to the availability of data, this kit aims to create awareness among prevention specialists and healthcare providers of the needs, experiences, and health status of LGBT Americans.

SAMHSA is committed to addressing behavioral health disparities among vulnerable populations, such as LGBT Americans, and will continue to work toward improving the access, quality, and outcomes of behavioral health services nationwide. This resource kit represents an important part of this commitment and directly supports SAMHSA’s Strategic Initiatives, as well as the vision and mission of SAMHSA’s Office of Behavioral Health Equity. SAMHSA has identified a number of goals and action steps relevant to LGBT populations that include: increasing social inclusion and reducing discrimination; preventing suicides and suicide attempts among LGBT youth; developing culturally relevant materials related to trauma and military service; and reducing disparities in access to—and quality of—behavioral healthcare services, among others.

This product is designed for a wide-range of organizations and individuals that serve LGBT populations across the country. These include prevention specialists working in State, Territorial, and Tribal community-based organizations; behavioral healthcare providers; medical and other allied health professionals; health educators; technical assistance providers; and LGBT individuals. The tools in this information and resource kit (i.e., fact sheets and PowerPoint slides) may be used individually or together to raise awareness of the physical and behavioral health status and needs of LGBT populations.