Previous international studies have shown that sexual and gender minorities (SGM) experience higher rates of mental health problems than cisgender heterosexual individuals (i.e. those whose gender identity aligns with their sex assigned at birth), largely because of social stressors such as stigma and discrimination. Research in countries where same-sex marriage has been legalized shows that legalization has contributed to improvements in mental health among SGM individuals.
In contrast, Japan has yet to recognize same-sex marriage nationally. Multiple municipal governments have introduced partnership certification systems to provide civil recognition of relationships for SGM residents. However, these systems do not confer a legal status equivalent to marriage.
Therefore, this study used cross-sectional data from a nationwide online survey of Japanese citizens aged 18 years and older that was conducted in 2022. The survey examined whether mental health outcomes among SGM individuals differed depending on whether they lived in municipalities with partnership certification systems. Psychological distress and self-reported suicidal ideation were used as indicators of mental health.
The study, “Association Between Same-Sex Partnership Certificate Schemes and Mental Health in Sexual and Gender Minority Adults: Nationwide Cross-sectional Study in Japan”, was published in BMJ open.
The results showed that SGM individuals reported significantly higher levels of psychological distress and suicidal ideation than cisgender heterosexual individuals. After adjusting for individual- and municipality-level factors, no difference in psychological distress was found between individuals living in municipalities with partnership certification systems and those living in municipalities without such systems.
Surprisingly, suicidal ideation was reported more frequently among those living in municipalities with such systems.
Consistent with previous international research, this study shows that SGM individuals in Japan experience greater rates of mental health distress. However, municipal partnership certification systems alone were not associated with improved mental health outcomes.
Because this study was cross-sectional, the findings do not establish causality. Nevertheless, they highlight the need for broader, more comprehensive policies and civil rights protections beyond partnership certification systems to better support the mental health of SGM individuals.
