‘It’s political’: mental health of emerging adults at the intersection of racism, cisgenderism, and heterosexism

Sexuality and gender diverse Emerging Adults of Colour face disproportionate mental health risks from the compounding effects of racism, cisheteronormativity, and structural exclusion. Understanding these lived experiences is essential for developing culturally grounded, affirming approaches to mental health equity. Eighteen participants (ages 18-24) who self-identified as both sexuality and gender diverse and as having a marginalised racial identity completed in-depth interviews, which were analysed using inductive thematic analysis, followed by intersectionality-informed interpretation. Two overarching themes were identified: (1) intersectional stigma and social exclusion; and (2) mental health and engagement with care. Participants described how marginalisation within institutions, families, and identity-based communities influenced their psychological well-being, trust in care systems, and desire for intersectionally affirming spaces. While many needed mental health support, structural barriers and the scarcity of culturally competent providers limited access. Findings highlight how intersectional stigma operates across relational and structural domains. Public health and social service efforts should address social and institutional contexts that produce exclusion.