Tuned In! An affirmative mindfulness intervention for sexual and gender diverse young people

Sexual and gender diverse youth and young adults (SGDY) experience significant mental health disparities compared to non-SGDY, which is exacerbated by ongoing anti-LGBTQIA + political attacks across the U.S. SGDY lack access to culturally responsive mental health supports and are overlooked in clinical practice/research. Mindfulness is a transformative practice that fosters well-being and provides tools to address the psychological impact of discriminatory experiences. This study investigated feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI), Tuned In!, co-developed with SGDY to improve mental health and navigate and challenge the current anti-LGBTQIA + sociopolitical context. Participants (n = 56), 16 to 29 yrs., were recruited and participated online. Surveys were administered pre, post-intervention, and at 6-month follow-up. Hierarchical Linear Modeling and Reflexive Thematic Analysis were used to analyze data. Rates of engagement and retention were high. High levels of satisfaction and acceptability, a significant decrease in depression, anxiety, and psychological distress, and a significant increase in sexual self-efficacy, mindfulness, and self-compassion were found, with gains maintained at 6-month follow-up. Qualitative analysis uncovered the following themes: Development of Crucial Coping Skills and Strategies, A Sense of Community Among SGDY, Learning from Peers Through Dialogue. Study results suggest that Tuned In! is a promising intervention to improve SGDY mental health.