Depressive Symptoms Among Individuals Identifying As Asexual: a Cross-sectional Study

Overview

Journal Sci Rep

Specialty Science

Date 2024 Jul 12

PMID 38997430

Authors

Sonia Lech

Monia Koppe

Maximilian Berger

Enrique Alonso-Perez

Paul Gellert

Wolfram Herrmann

Pichit Buspavanich

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Although asexuality became a growing research subject over the last decade, data on the mental health of individuals identifying as asexual is still rare. The key objective of the present study was to examine depressive symptoms among individuals identifying as asexual. Data of LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Trans*, Queer, Inter*, Asexual and/or + indicating others within the community) and cisgender heterosexual individuals was collected through an online survey during the COVID-19 lockdowns in Germany. The survey included questions about sexual and gender identity, depressive symptoms, and asexual identity. An analysis of N = 6601 participants was conducted. A total of n = 445 individuals identified as asexual. Regression results indicated identifying as asexual being significantly associated with higher depressive symptoms. Results suggest that individuals identifying as asexual represent a vulnerable group within the group of sexual minorities, one that fundamentally requires special psychosocial support, especially in times of pandemics.

Citing Articles

Social networks and loneliness differ between LGBTIA and cis-heterosexual persons: results from a two-wave survey in Germany.

Oeser P, Wellendorff T, Napierala H, Bolster M, Gellert P, Herrmann W Sci Rep. 2025; 15(1):8061.

PMID: 40055453 PMC: 11889243. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-92021-9.

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