Psychologists from Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and the University of Brighton analyzed the responses of 300 self-identified LGB individuals using standardized, validated measures not previously focused on this group. The findings revealed that 89.6% of participants had poor sleep quality, with over 20% at risk of excessive daytime sleepiness. These sleep issues were linked to challenges faced by sexual minorities, such as discrimination and low self-acceptance, leading to anxiety, depression, and poor sleep.

Additionally, a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) was consistently associated with worse sleep across all measures. The study found minimal differences in sleep patterns between lesbians, gays, and bisexuals, except for higher rates of insomnia in bisexual individuals. However, the research also indicated that a strong sense of sexual identity could help mitigate stress, indirectly promoting better sleep and mental health.

Lead researcher, Professor John Groeger, Professor of Psychology at NTU’s School of Social Sciences and head of SleepWellScience, a sleep assessment service for those recovering from major trauma, said: “Previous studies among LGB communities haven’t focused specifically on sleep - but they do suggest differences in sleep duration between sexual orientation groups.

“This study uses quality measures and confirms that LGB individuals experience drastically poorer sleep than expected, largely due to the stresses of being open about their sexuality. As a result, they face increased health risks, including diabetes and heart disease."

Professor Rusi Jaspal, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research & Knowledge Exchange) and Professor of Psychology at the University of Brighton, added: "To improve sleep and overall health in LGB communities, support should focus on building confident sexual identities and reducing exposure to minority stressors. We also recommend that future research be centred on understanding sleep patterns in this group and how identity, stress, and well-being are connected."

Source: Sexual identity stress linked to poor sleep in LGB individuals | Nottingham Trent University