Repairing the Trauma of Growing Up Gay

Gay men, like many marginalized groups, face higher rates of mental health challenges due to lifelong stigma and discrimination. Ilan Meyer's "minority stress theory" attributes these struggles to societal oppression. Alan Downs' book, "The Velvet Rage," suggests that instead of avoiding shame, gay men should confront it through therapy, self-compassion practices, and affirming spiritual traditions for lasting healing.