Psychological Distress and Well-Being in Relation to Sexual Minority Status Among Malaysian Undergraduates: Findings from a Multi-Institutional Survey

Psychological distress is increasing among university students, especially sexual minority individuals in Malaysia, who face stigma and challenges within a sociocultural and dual legal system. This study examined the relationship between sexual minority status and both negative (psychological strain, distress, suicidality) and positive (self-esteem, purpose in life, social support, religiosity) mental health indicators among Malaysian undergraduates. A cross-sectional, multi-institutional survey was conducted utilizing an existing dataset, yielding a final analytical sample of 2244 participants (1870 heterosexual and 374 sexual minority students). Data were analyzed using Welch’s ANOVA and multiple logistic regression, controlling for demographic variables. Heterosexual students reported significantly lower depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, and suicidality compared to gay, bisexual, and participants with other sexual orientation. In the fully adjusted model, sexual minority identity remained significantly associated with higher deprivation strain (aOR: 1.043), depression (aOR: 1.025), and suicidality (aOR: 1.117). Conversely, identifying as a sexual minority was linked to lower religious commitment (aOR: 0.961) and lower perceived family support (aOR: 0.943). Self-esteem and purpose in life lost statistical significance in the fully adjusted model. Sexual minority undergraduates in Malaysia face heightened psychological distress and suicidality, underscoring the need for comprehensive campus mental health interventions.