EP20 – Let’s SPIC About… Sexuality and Mental Health in Young People

EP20 – Let’s SPIC About… Sexuality and Mental Health in Young People

Spotify

Sexuality, gender identity and the impact of discrimination on mental health were the main topics discussed in this episode of the Let’s SPIC About podcast, produced by the SPIC — Psychology, Innovation and Knowledge Service at Lusófona University.

Hosted by psychologist Elisa Aires, the episode featured Pedro Teixeira, a clinical psychologist and sexologist, and Emmanuel Vieira, a student on the Master’s Degree in Clinical and Health Psychology and an intern at SPIC.

During the conversation, Pedro Teixeira emphasised that sexuality is a broad and complex concept that goes far beyond sexual relationships. He explained that sexuality encompasses dimensions such as gender identity, sexual orientation, pleasure, eroticism, and emotional and social relationships, and is influenced by biological, psychological and social factors, among others.
The psychologist also highlighted the importance of distinguishing between concepts such as biological sex, gender identity, sexual orientation and gender expression, arguing that each of these dimensions encompasses multiple possibilities and that their combination reflects the diversity and uniqueness of each individual.

Emmanuel Vieira pointed out that universities reflect the dynamics of society, acknowledging greater openness towards diversity in sexual orientation, while also noting persistent challenges surrounding the acceptance and normalisation of gender identity within the academic environment. The student highlighted the need to create more inclusive university settings that can guarantee freedom of gender expression and respect for diversity.

The discussion also addressed the impact of homophobia, transphobia and sexism on mental health. Pedro Teixeira noted that scientific literature demonstrates the negative effects of these forms of discrimination, which can manifest themselves through depressive symptoms, anxiety, social phobias and emotional instability.

The specialist warned of the risks of pathologising members of the community without considering that many of their mental health difficulties stem from ongoing experiences of rejection, violence and being unable to live authentically. In this context, microaggressions — minor acts of violence and comments that deny or minimise experiences of discrimination — were highlighted as subtle yet deeply harmful forms of everyday exclusion.

This episode therefore reinforces the importance of promoting informed dialogue about sexuality, diversity and mental health, helping to build a more aware, empathetic and inclusive society.

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Production
SPIC – Psychology, Innovation and Knowledge Service at Lusófona University

Camera & Lighting
Gabriel Motta and Paulo Renato

Editing
Paulo Renato

Text
Bruna Pereira