Date of Conferral
3-19-2025
Date of Award
March 2025
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Health Services
Advisor
Srikanta Banerjee
Abstract
Prior studies have examined the connection between minority sexual orientation (MSO) and mental health; however, very little is known about the effect among veterans. The objective of this cross-sectional quantitative study aimed to determine the relationship between veteran status, sexual orientation, anxiety levels, access to mental health services, and suicidal ideation among veterans. More specifically, it addressed if veteran status modifies the association between anxiety and suicidal ideation, if marital status modifies the association between mental health care access and suicidal ideation, and if veteran status modifies the association between sexual orientation and suicidal ideation after controlling for age, gender, and ethnicity. Secondary data from the 2015-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) included adults (N=10,516) 20 years and older from that period. The study was grounded in the minority stress theory and biopsychosocial theory. Logistic regression was used to assess the impact of veteran status and anxiety, mental health access, and sexual orientation on suicidal ideation. Results showed that veterans with anxiety (OR=17.4) lack of healthcare access (OR=4.56); and sexual orientation (OR=5.47) significantly increased the likelihood of suicidal ideation compared to the general population suggesting that various mental health issues should be addressed from various perspectives. Recommendations include highlighting the challenges faced by MSO veterans in accessing mental health services and their higher risk of terminal outcomes such as suicide, emphasizing the importance of early screening and targeted interventions. Support groups and access to resources that can help veterans address their mental health challenges.
Recommended Citation
Ashley, Winsome R., "The Relationship Between Sexual Orientation, Anxiety, and Mental Health Access with Suicidal Ideation Among Veterans" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 17502.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/17502
