LGBTQ+ Mental Health Support: A Pride Month Guide
Everyone struggles with their mental health from time to time. However, many people may be unfamiliar with how prevalent conditions such as anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions are in the LGBTQ+ community. Read this blog to learn more about LGBTQ+ mental health support and how those struggling can get the proper care.
Mental Health in the LGBTQ+ Community
When it comes to providing proper LGBTQ+ mental health support, staying educated about the mental health disparities and unique struggles of individuals within the community is crucial.
Mental health disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender orientation. However, mental health professionals have found that certain groups can be more prone to developing specific conditions.
Young adults, in particular, struggle with many different mental health conditions, from mood disorders to personality disorders. Similarly, young adults who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community will find themselves experiencing disorders such as:
Key Findings & Statistics
Half of US adults will experience struggles with mental health at some point in their lives. Whether these experiences have short or long-term effects depends heavily on the individual and their surroundings.
Mental health in the LGBTQ+ community is often overlooked, and therefore leaves individuals feeling alone and unable to get the help they need. According to several LGBTQ+ youth mental health surveys from the Trevor Project, in 2024:
- 39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including 46% of transgender and nonbinary young people.
- More than 1 in 10 LGBTQ+ young people attempted suicide in the past year.
- 50% of LGBTQ+ young people who wanted mental health care in the past year were not able to get it.
- More than half of transgender and nonbinary young people found their school to be gender-affirming, and those who did reported lower rates of attempting suicide.
- 90% of LGBTQ+ young people said their well-being was negatively impacted due to recent politics.
- 45% of transgender and nonbinary young people reported that they or their family have considered moving to a different state because of LGBTQ+-related politics and laws.
- Nearly half of LGBTQ+ young people (ages 13-17) experienced bullying in the past year, and those who did reported significantly higher rates of attempting suicide in the past year than those who did not experience bullying.
- 66% of LGBTQ+ young people reported experiencing recent symptoms of anxiety.
- 53% of LGBTQ+ young people reported experiencing recent symptoms of depression.
- LGBTQ+ young people who reported living in very accepting communities attempted suicide at less than half the rate of those who reported living in very unaccepting communities.
Note: If anyone is having suicidal thoughts, they should get help immediately. Contact the suicide hotline for assistance (988) or call Malvern Behavioral Health (610-480-8919). We have staff available 24/7 to assist someone feeling depressed or having unsafe thoughts.
Many people who are part of the LGBTQ+ community feel as though they live in a world that is unsafe for them, or is actively working to reject them. Feeling a lack of LGBTQ+ mental health support can significantly affect their mental and emotional well-being.
Factors That Affect LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health
Several factors affect a person’s mental health, and finding a definitive reason is often difficult. This is why it’s important for individuals who are struggling to seek help from a professional. Below, we’ve listed some of the common factors that may play a role in LGBTQ+ youth’s mental health and emotional state.
Bullying & Discrimination
Being bullied or actively discriminated against can leave individuals of all ages feeling alienated and isolated. It’s important to remember that bullying can happen anywhere — at home, in school, or out in public — and anyone who is the target of social exclusion or verbal/physical harassment is at risk of developing long-term trauma.
Unsafe Environments
An individual may feel unsafe if they are surrounded by family or friends who have unhealthy ways of interacting or expressing emotion. Especially if they express bias or prejudiced attitudes towards those in the LGBTQ+ community. This can include a wide range of behaviors, ranging from explosive outbursts of anger to being dismissive.
Feeling seen, validated, and accepted by those around us plays a key role in someone experiencing emotional safety. For those going through the natural process of identity development, the lack of a safe support group (as well as rejection or maladaptive behaviors) could be damaging.
Rejection
Sometimes, people may be rejected by their friends and loved ones when coming out due to their gender orientation. The experience of coming out to others can be an important time in a person’s life, and rejection of their identity can be devastating. Having a strong support system that is accepting is very important, especially for those navigating their identity or struggling with mental health concerns.
Minority Stress & Social Stigma
Mental health challenges in the LGBTQ+ community are also often linked to “minority stress,” which stems from unique stressors like the ones mentioned above. These experiences, collectively, can negatively impact their mental health.
When people internalize society’s negative views, they might develop self-stigma and feelings of shame, which can worsen their mental health. This is especially common in individuals who feel minority stress, such as those within the LGBTQ+ community.
5 Quick LGBTQ+ Mental Health Support Tips
Many paths lead to recovery, and having a solid foundation of self-care outside of an inpatient treatment setting plays a key role in improving and maintaining positive mental health and well-being. Individuals can try practicing these simple yet effective LGBTQ+ mental health support techniques on their own.
1. Embrace Healthy Eating & Staying Active
Taking care of oneself regularly is crucial to a person’s mental state. For example, consistently eating a healthy and balanced diet can positively affect someone’s mental and physical health. Similarly, abstaining from alcohol, drugs, or other unhealthy substances is an important practice if someone is feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling with other mood changes.
Exercising is also beneficial for the mind and body. It doesn’t have to be a daunting workout, we encourage individuals to find what works best for them. Whether it be going for a run or joining a gym/yoga program, as long as someone is getting their body moving, they will notice a difference in their mental health. Staying active not only helps a person stay in shape physically, but it also acts as an outlet for releasing stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions.
2. Practice Meditation & Breathing
Meditation and breathing exercises are great ways for an individual to practice body awareness and calming techniques, should they find themselves spiraling or in need of grounding. Additionally, practicing mindfulness helps individuals reduce stress and anxiety by organizing their thoughts and increasing their awareness of their physical condition.
There are many different ways to meditate and practice mindfulness. It’s best to explore various techniques and see what works best for your unique needs. Some of these include:
- Guided meditation
- Mantra meditation
- Mindfulness meditation
- Qigong
- Tai chi
- Yoga
Looking for an easy breathing exercise? Download our step-by-step guide.
3. Use a Journal
Bottling up negative emotions or intrusive thoughts can increase stress, anxiety, and depression. However, sometimes a person may feel too scared or ashamed to share how they are feeling with the people around them.
By using a journal, people are able to express their thoughts and feelings without the fear of sharing too much. Writing in their own words, for themselves, gives them time to process the emotions before talking through the next steps.
4. Explore a Hobby
Hobbies can give individuals a safe space to release stress and express their creativity. Having a hobby gives a person something to look forward to throughout their day or week. These activities can be anything that sparks interest and is a healthy outlet, such as:
- Drawing or painting
- Playing or listening to music
- Singing or Dancing
- Knitting or Sewing
- Baking or cooking
- Reading or writing
Setting aside at least an hour for a hobby or activity will ensure someone has something to break up their busy or stressful day.
5. Set a Daily Goal For Yourself
While it may seem insignificant, setting small goals helps motivate individuals to accomplish at least one thing each day.
These goals can be anything from seeing a family member or a friend to running an errand. No matter how insignificant it may feel when we reward ourselves for even the smallest tasks, we are giving ourselves a reason to try again and build confidence each day.
Mental Health Resources For LGBTQ+ Individuals
There are other long-term and effective approaches to explore when looking for more extensive LGBTQ+ mental health support, including:
- LGBTQ+ therapy programs or counseling
- Medication
- LGBTQ+ mental health support groups
- Self-directed planning tools such as a “WRAP” plan (Wellness Recovery Action Planning)
Note: No person must use prescription medications without being under the care of a mental health professional. ALL medications prescribed for mental health require prescriptions and could have various side effects. Make sure to contact your primary care doctor or a mental health professional for more information about any prescription medications.
Individuals who are struggling should speak with a supportive friend, family member, school counselor, doctor, or another trusted person. For other support systems and outlets, check out these online communities and local organizations:
- The Trevor Project
- QueerDoc Virtual Communities and Support Groups
- Pennsylvania LGBTQ Organization Directory
- Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition
- GLO
Looking for legal information and assistance? Learn more at the Transgender Law Center.
How to Navigate Pride Month: FAQs
Whether you’re a seasoned Pride-goer or attending for the first time, it’s important to know how to make the most of the festivities while also prioritizing your well-being. Below, we’ve answered common questions about Pride month and provided tips on how you can celebrate safely.
How did Pride start?
The Pride movement began with the Stonewall Riots, which took place on June 28, 1969. For six days, queer and trans people, especially LGBTQ+ people of color, rebelled against decades of discrimination and police brutality at The Stonewall Inn, a queer bar in New York City’s West Village. Today, we continue to celebrate Pride in June, taking the time to remember the start of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Can I Celebrate Pride Sober?
While some Pride events might involve alcohol or other intoxicants, and that could be a challenge if you’re sober, remember you have every right to celebrate without them. Many cities also host sober Pride events or meetings. Consider keeping an eye out for those or ask other community members for suggestions.
Additionally, like many other festivals and celebrations, you won’t be the only sober person at Pride, and others who are sober will appreciate your company and be glad to help you navigate the events.
Can I Go to Pride Alone?
If you’re planning to go by yourself, it’s a good idea to research events and activities in your area ahead of time. This way, you’ll know what to expect and can check on accessibility. Consider sharing your location with trusted friends or family. Having someone who can check in with you before and after an event is a smart move, just in case anything comes up.
Furthermore, if large events typically make you anxious, be sure to make a plan and remember that organizers and many other LGBTQ+ individuals will be accepting and excited to see you there, whether you come alone or with a group.
Can I Celebrate Pride Without Being “Out?”
Pride is just as significant for those who haven’t yet come out. The LGBTQ+ community wants you to know there’s a vibrant, diverse, and loving space waiting to accept and advocate for you. Therefore, to participate in Pride, you don’t have to disclose your sexuality or gender identity.
Find the right LGBTQ+ mental health support and call our Wisteria Program today.
