The Impact of Social Support on Thriving and Health in Sexually‐Diverse and Gender‐Diverse Populations

ABSTRACT Sexually and gender diverse (SGD) populations—an inclusive term for LGBTQ+—experience elevated stress and disproportionate physical and psychological health burdens. However, the way these burdens are anticipated, experienced, and internalized varies across individuals and social contexts. While prior research has primarily focused on how psychosocial resources buffer the negative effects of minority stress, less attention has been given to how they contribute to positive identity development and thriving. In this review, we synthesize theoretical and empirical work on stigma, minority stress, social safety, and close relationships to examine social support as a key predictor of thriving among SGD individuals. We introduce a novel theoretical model that highlights how receiving support can shape identity‐related outcomes, with positive downstream effects on long‐term thriving. Importantly, our model addresses not only support processes in response to identity‐related stress, but also those that foster identity exploration, growth, and positive self‐development. While this work aligns with a broader shift in the literature towards strength‐based (rather than deficit‐focused) narratives of marginalized communities, we also recognize the current sociopolitical climate in which SGD individuals, and those who support them, are increasingly targeted by harmful policies and public discourse. These structural challenges underscore the urgency of understanding how identity‐affirming support fosters resilience, growth, and thriving in the face of adversity. We conclude by discussing how our model can guide future research, with attention to key aspects of marginalization, social identity, and methodological approaches needed to better understand and address the experiences of SGD communities within contemporary social contexts.