The Australian Marriage Law postal survey took place in November 2017.

Research by psychologists at the University of Sydney has shown that increased exposure to negative messages about same-sex marriage was associated with greater psychological distress for lesbian, gay and bisexual Australians during the 2017 Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey.

The study showed that the stigmatised social status of lesbian, gay and bisexual identity was not only a source of stress but could also serve as a source of resilience when it provides individuals with opportunities for social support.

Published in the Australian Psychological Society’s journal, Australian Psychologist, the study assessed the mental health of 1305 Australians who identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual during the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey in 2017.

The research found increased exposure to homophobic campaign and media messages was related to increased levels of depression, anxiety and stress among same-sex attracted Australians.

“The findings highlight how political decision-making and legislative processes related to the rights of minority populations have the potential to negatively affect their mental health,” said lead author Stefano Verrelli, a doctoral candidate at the University of Sydney’s School of Psychology.