Singapore Health Officials: LGBTQ People Are Normal

Leading health officials from Singapore announced in an online Q&A report this week that LGBTQ people are normal and do not suffer from mental illnesses, Gay Star News reports.

Singapore's Health Promotion Board officials' report is aimed at educating the Southeast Asian country's citizens on the LGBTQ community and LGBTQ issues. The group was created in 2001 by Singapore's government and the board's "Frequently Asked Questions About Homosexuality" was made last November but has only been noticed recently.

The Q&A explains what homosexuality and bisexuality is and defines gender identity and sexual orientation.

"Homosexuality and bisexuality are not mental illnesses. Studies show that sexual orientation has no bearing on mental health or emotional stability," the report says, under the subhead, "Is my child normal? Is being gay or bisexual a mental illness? Should they seek medical help?"

The report continues, "However, an individual who is questioning his or her sexual orientation may experience anxiety, uncertainty, confusion and lower self-esteem among many other emotions. When these emotions are not properly addressed, they can lead to depression. If you feel that your child may need help to handle these emotions, seek professional help from a doctor, a counsellor or a professional who understands Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender, Questioning (LGBTQ) issues."

The report also says that gay people cannot "turn" straight.

"While some are aware of their preferences from an early age, others come to understand their gender identity and sexual orientation later in life,' the report reads. "It is important to note that nothing someone encounters in life can "make" one gay, lesbian or bisexual. Although events in life can help clarify gender identity and sexual orientation, sexual experience is not necessary to understand sexual orientation."

The media picked up on the pro-gay education tool after someone created an online petition to have it removed from the board's website. Less than 1,500 people have signed the measure, however, as GSN points out. A counter petition was created Tuesday to keep the Q&A online. As of this writing, it has more than 1,400 signatures.