Welcome to DU!
The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards.
Join the community:
Create a free account
Support DU (and get rid of ads!):
Become a Star Member
Latest Breaking News
Editorials & Other Articles
General Discussion
The DU Lounge
All Forums
Issue Forums
Culture Forums
Alliance Forums
Region Forums
Support Forums
Help & Search
153 year old law (India) criminalizing gay relationships may contribute to mental health problems
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1131215/jsp/nation/story_17683019.jsp#.Uq3EeOIljwINew Delhi, Dec. 14: The 153-year-old law that criminalises gay sex is likely contributing to hidden depression and possibly even substance abuse among homosexuals, mental health professionals campaigning for its repeal have said.
The experts have said the Supreme Court’s ruling earlier this week re-criminalising gay sex could lead to a surge in depression levels across the community. They have cited international studies that point to higher levels of mental health problems among gay men.
Overturning a Delhi High Court ruling of July 2009, the Supreme Court upheld Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code that criminalises gay sex while suggesting the law may be amended through the legislative process.
“It can be mentally devastating to find that the law condemns an aspect of identity so basic to them,” said Shalini John, a clinical psychologist in New Delhi who has worked with gay people. “It can be extremely stressful and may push some towards clinical depression.”
Psychiatrists say medical studies in Europe and North America have consistently indicated that non-heterosexual people are at a higher risk of mental disorders, including depression, suicidal thoughts and substance abuse.
<snip>