Mohammad Abdul Mannan Akond

Noakhali Rural Development Society, Bangladesh

Title: A Life Cursed with Difference of Mind and Body: The Role of Counseling, Technology, and Innovation in Empowering Women and LGBTQ+ Mental Health in Bangladesh

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Biography

Mohammad Abdul Mannan Akond is a seasoned social worker with over two decades of experience advocating for women's and LGBTQ+ rights in Bangladesh. With a background in Sociology and Anthropology, he has worked extensively on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention, and protection initiatives. His expertise in gender analysis and women’s empowerment has made him a key figure in developing strategic interventions for marginalized groups. Throughout his career, Mohammad has also focused on the LGBTQ+ community, working to promote inclusivity and human rights in both urban and rural contexts. His practical experience spans public health projects, including HIV/AIDS and TB control management, and he is committed to creating sustainable solutions for underrepresented communities. Currently he is working with GCAP (Global Call to Action Against Poverty) program under United Nations for poverty reduction, Climate Governance, Social Security and reducing discriminations.

Abstract

Introduction: In Bangladesh, the lived experiences of women and LGBTQ+ people reveal a striking disconnect between the mind and body, shaped by deeply rooted cultural, religious, and social norms. For many women, their bodies are often viewed as vessels for familial honor, fertility, and submission, while their minds yearn for autonomy, equality, and respect. The contradiction between what society expects from them and what they aspire to creates a “cursed” existence where the mind and body are constantly at odds. This clash is even more pronounced for LGBTQ+ individuals, whose gender identity and sexual orientation often deviate from the rigid binary and heteronormative structures that dominate the country's social landscape.

Summary Situation for the both communities:

For women, the patriarchal system prescribes strict gender roles that emphasize obedience, modesty, and sacrifice. From a young age, girls are conditioned to adhere to these standards, suppressing their desires for independence, education, or careers that challenge male dominance. The constant policing of women's bodies—through the expectation to dress conservatively, avoid public spaces after dark, and tolerate gender-based violence—creates a sense of entrapment. Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and a sense of powerlessness often emerge, but due to stigma, these struggles are frequently left unaddressed. Women's minds are burdened with the expectation to conform, even as they strive for more fulfilling, authentic lives.

For the LGBTQ+ community, the gap between mind and body becomes even more tragic. Same-sex relationships and diverse gender identities are socially condemned, legally unrecognized, and often violently suppressed. The Penal Code of 1860 criminalizes same-sex relations under Section 377, and despite advocacy efforts, this law still casts a shadow over LGBTQ+ lives. Many LGBTQ+ individuals face ostracism, harassment, and forced marriages, leading to internalized homophobia or transphobia. The body becomes a site of constant conflict, as transgender people in particular must navigate life in a society that refuses to acknowledge their gender identity. The psychological toll is severe, with many reporting high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts due to rejection from families and communities.

In both cases, societal expectations create a rift between the mind’s desire for freedom and the body’s suppression to oppressive norms. This “cursed” life for women and LGBTQ+ people in Bangladesh is characterized by an ongoing struggle to resolve their internal identities with external realities that deny them dignity and respect.

Objectives:

1. To explore the mental health challenges faced by women and LGBTQ+ individuals in Bangladesh, focusing on societal stigmatization, identity conflict, and mental well-being.

2. To evaluate the role of counselling services in improving mental health outcomes for these groups, particularly in navigating the pressures of traditional gender roles and social exclusion.

3. To analyse the impact of technological innovation in providing women and LGBTQ+ individuals with access to mental health resources, counselling, and economic empowerment opportunities.

4. To propose solutions for expanding mental health services, counselling platforms, and digital tools to address the needs of marginalized groups across Bangladesh, with a focus on rural and underserved communities.

Methodology:

This paper adopts a mixed-method approach, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data to explore the mental health challenges and opportunities for empowerment among women and LGBTQ+ individuals in Bangladesh:

1. Literature Review: Review of existing studies, NGO reports, and government publications on mental health disparities, counselling services, and access to technology for marginalized communities.

2. Interviews: Interviews with mental health professionals, LGBTQ+ advocates, women who have received counselling, and individuals from the LGBTQ+ community who have accessed mental health services.

3. Case Studies: Examination of case studies where counselling and technology-based interventions have successfully improved mental health outcomes for women and LGBTQ+ individuals.

4. Data Analysis: Analysis of survey data and reports on mental health issues, digital access, and technology use among marginalized groups, with an emphasis on rural versus urban access.

Role of Counselling in Mental Health Support:

Counselling plays a crucial role in addressing the mental health needs of women and LGBTQ+ individuals in Bangladesh, where social, cultural, and legal barriers contribute significantly to psychological distress. Both groups experience unique challenges that often lead to anxiety, depression, and trauma. For women, the pressures of a patriarchal society, domestic violence, gender-based discrimination, and limited access to education or economic independence often result in feelings of isolation and powerlessness. Similarly, LGBTQ+ individuals face rejection, discrimination, and legal threats, including the criminalization of same-sex relationships, all of which fuel mental health crises.

Counselling offers a safe space for these individuals to express their emotions, fears, and desires, often for the first time without judgment. For women, counselling can help address issues like trauma from domestic violence or sexual abuse, anxiety stemming from societal pressures, and depression due to unfulfilled potential. It empowers them to take control of their lives by providing emotional support and strategies to navigate oppressive environments.

For LGBTQ+ individuals, counselling is vital in addressing the trauma of living in a heteronormative society that often negates their very identity. Many LGBTQ+ people suffer from internalized homophobia or transphobia due to societal rejection, and counselling can be a lifeline in helping them develop self-acceptance. Trained counselors can also help individuals cope with family rejection, harassment, and the lack of legal protections, providing tools to build resilience.

However, the availability of specialized counselling for women and LGBTQ+ individuals in Bangladesh is still limited. Increased access to mental health services, as well as culturally sensitive counselling approaches, is essential for supporting these vulnerable populations in overcoming the psychological impacts of discrimination and oppression.

The Role of Technology and Innovation in Empowering Women and LGBTQ+ Individuals:

In Bangladesh, technology and innovation are vital tools for empowering women and LGBTQ+ individuals, who often face systemic barriers to education, employment, and social inclusion. Access to digital platforms, online education, and financial technologies can bridge the gap created by societal restrictions, enabling these marginalized groups to overcome limitations and improve their quality of life.

For women, technology can be transformative in many areas. Mobile banking and financial apps, for example, enable women to achieve economic independence, especially in rural areas where traditional banking infrastructure is lacking. Women entrepreneurs can use e-commerce platforms to start and grow businesses, bypassing traditional gatekeepers of capital and markets. Additionally, online education platforms allow women to pursue learning opportunities despite societal or familial restrictions, helping them develop skills in STEM, entrepreneurship, and more. The use of technology in health services, such as telemedicine, also ensures that women have access to crucial medical care, including maternal health, which can be otherwise limited due to cultural constraints.

For the LGBTQ+ community, technology plays an even more critical role. Online spaces provide LGBTQ+ individuals with a sense of community and solidarity, offering safe environments for self-expression and identity exploration, which may not be possible in their immediate surroundings. Social media and messaging platforms enable activism, allowing LGBTQ+ rights advocates to organize and spread awareness while remaining anonymous if needed. Access to digital mental health services is also essential, offering support to LGBTQ+ individuals who may be struggling with rejection, discrimination, or mental health challenges in a largely conservative society.

In both cases, innovation—whether through apps, platforms, or services—enables marginalized groups to gain access to information, resources, and opportunities that empower them economically, socially, and personally. Expanding technological access and fostering innovation are thus crucial for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society in Bangladesh.

Results:

1. Mental Health Improvements: Counseling services have been effective in improving mental health outcomes for both women and LGBTQ+ individuals. Those who have accessed counseling report better mental health, increased self-confidence, and improved ability to navigate societal challenges.

2. Technology as a Lifeline: Technology has become a lifeline for many marginalized individuals, offering them access to mental health services, support networks, and economic opportunities. Telemedicine and mental health apps are breaking down the barriers that once prevented women and LGBTQ+ individuals from seeking help.

3. Economic Empowerment: Digital tools are not only improving mental health but also offering women and LGBTQ+ individuals new opportunities for financial independence. This, in turn, reduces the economic pressures that often contribute to poor mental health.

4. Remaining Challenges: Despite progress, significant barriers remain, including the stigma surrounding mental health, the digital divide, and the lack of inclusive healthcare and counseling services for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Conclusion and Recommendations:

1. Expand Counseling Services: Increase investment in counseling services that cater specifically to the needs of women and LGBTQ+ individuals. This includes training counsellors to provide culturally sensitive, inclusive care.

2. Leverage Technology: Governments and NGOs must work to close the digital divide by expanding internet access and providing digital literacy programs for women and LGBTQ+ individuals in rural areas.

3. Raise Awareness: Public awareness campaigns are needed to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals and women. These campaigns should promote the importance of mental well-being and the availability of counselling services.

4. Integrate Economic and Mental Health Support: Programs that combine mental health counselling with economic empowerment opportunities should be expanded. These initiatives can provide women and LGBTQ+ individuals with holistic support that addresses both their psychological and financial needs.

This paper demonstrates the importance of counseling, technology, and innovation in addressing the mental health and empowerment needs of women and LGBTQ+ individuals in Bangladesh. By fostering greater access to mental health services and empowering individuals economically and socially, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for all.