This study examined how social identity processes (i.e., identification and social support) from the LGBTQ+ community influenced the negative relationship between perceived discrimination and mental health among sexual minorities (SMs) in different parts of the world. Additionally, we explored cultural orientations (i.e., individualism) had an impact on these relationships. Participants (n = 441) from the United States, Portugal, Ireland, and the Dominican Republic completed an online survey. Results from a serial mediation analysis showed that despite perceived discrimination having a negative association with SMs’ mental health, it was also positively associated with LGBTQ+ community identification. In turn, LGBTQ+ identification was positively associated with LGBTQ+ social support. Lastly, LGBTQ+ social support was positively associated with SMs’ mental health outcomes. A subsequent moderated serial mediation indicated that participants with a higher endorsement of individualism reported higher levels of mental health. Our findings emphasize how social identity and cultural approach can help inform ways to address the existing mental health disparities between SMs and heterosexual people.

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discrimination,mental health,social identity,culture,LGBTQ+