A new study has revealed that online communities provide a vital sense of safety and belonging for LGBTQ+ youth, especially when compared to many in-person environments.
The research, conducted by Hopelab in partnership with the Born This Way Foundation, surveyed over 1,200 young people aged 15 to 24 and found that LGBTQ+ youth are far more likely to feel accepted and supported online than in their physical communities.
More than four in five (82%) respondents said they are “out” online, while only 53% said the same about their offline lives. For many, digital platforms serve as a lifeline—offering connection, affirmation, and access to resources that are otherwise difficult to find.
“Online spaces give us a sense of control and choice,” one respondent shared. “You can find people who understand you and support you, even if your offline world doesn’t.”
The Power of Online Kindness
The survey found that 61% of LGBTQ+ youth describe their online spaces as “very kind”, compared to just 23% who said the same about in-person environments.
These findings highlight the essential role of digital platforms in fostering community and reducing isolation for young LGBTQ+ people—especially those living in areas where acceptance may be limited.
However, the study also underscores the importance of translating that support into the real world. Access to inclusive spaces—such as affirming schools, workplaces, and local communities—was strongly linked to better mental health and reduced anxiety.
A Call to Action for Employers and Educators
If LGBTQ+ youth are finding more kindness and safety online than in person, there is a clear need to examine how belonging, representation, and support are fostered in schools, universities, and workplaces.
The message from this survey is simple: community matters. And everyone—whether an employer, a colleague, or an educator—has a role to play in building a society where everyone feels safe to be themselves.