The non-structured encounter group in this project provided a unique supportive space for sexual minority men to share personal experiences freely and establish meaningful connections in a safe environment. While quantitative results showed no significant changes on the TAS-20 scale, qualitative data revealed a profound impact on participants’ mental health. Many members expressed an increased self-acceptance and greater confidence in authentically expressing themselves in social settings. The emotional support and empathy within the group helped participants overcome emotional burdens from family, workplace, and societal pressures, reducing their reliance on defensive mechanisms and fostering a stable support network.

The high level of engagement among members was evident as they organized gatherings independently, exchanged contact information, and expressed a strong sense of belonging to the group. Some participants noted that the group experience empowered them to face longstanding emotional issues and release feelings of shame and self-doubt, which was rare in their prior experiences. These supportive interactions strengthened their psychological resilience and emotional stability, enabling them to face personal challenges with increased strength.

This project demonstrated the potential of non-structured encounter groups in supporting the mental well-being of sexual minority men, providing practical insights for future research and applications. Future recommendations include introducing dynamic emotional assessments and enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration to systematically support the mental health development of sexual minority populations.