It Is Now 50 Years Since Gay People Were 'Cured'

In 2023, we marked a significant milestone in the history of mental health and human rights: the 50th anniversary of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) declassifying homosexuality as a psychiatric diagnosis. This decision, made in 1973, marked the end of organized medicine’s participation in the social stigmatization of homosexuality, a practice that had profound and lasting effects on the mental health and lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.

The path to this pivotal moment was long and fraught with challenges. Homosexuality has been the subject of medical scrutiny and moral judgment for centuries. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, psychiatrists and psychologists began to categorize homosexuality as a mental disorder, a stance that was solidified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) when it was first published in 1952. This classification not only pathologized homosexuality but also provided a medical justification for discrimination and prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals.

The declassification of homosexuality as a psychiatric diagnosis was a result of decades of advocacy by LGBTQ+ activists and mental health professionals who challenged the prevailing views on homosexuality. Key to this shift was the understanding that sexual orientation is not a choice and cannot be changed, contrary to the belief that homosexuality could be 'cured' through therapy or other interventions. This realization was bolstered by research that showed the detrimental effects of attempts to change sexual orientation, known as conversion therapy, on the mental health of individuals subjected to it.

The APA’s decision to remove homosexuality from the DSM was a watershed moment that signaled a broader shift in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals. It marked the beginning of a new era where the focus shifted from 'curing' homosexuality to understanding and supporting the mental health needs of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. This change was not just symbolic; it had tangible impacts on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals, reducing the stigma associated with homosexuality and paving the way for greater acceptance and equality.

As we reflect on this 50th anniversary, it is important to acknowledge the progress that has been made, but also to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the removal of homosexuality from the DSM, discrimination, prejudice, and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals continue to be pervasive issues. Furthermore, the debate over conversion therapy persists, with some groups still advocating for its use despite the overwhelming evidence of its harm.

In the years since the APA’s decision, there have been significant advancements in the understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity. Mental health professionals now recognize the importance of affirming and supporting the identities of their LGBTQ+ clients, and there is a growing body of research on the specific mental health needs and experiences of this community. These developments underscore the importance of continued advocacy and education to further promote acceptance and reduce stigma.

Looking ahead, the 50th anniversary of the APA’s decision serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of challenging harmful beliefs and practices. It is a call to continue fighting for the rights and well-being of all individuals, ensuring that the lessons learned from the past inform our present and future efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable society.