LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely than others to experience mental health challenges. What are some ways we can continue to support LGBTQIA mental health? In an ideal world, each person facing mental health https://psychcentral.com/health/how-adults-can-help-black-youth-with-mental-health challenges would have access to mental health professionals like counselors, social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
LGBTQIA2S+ Crisis Hotlines
Blue Ridge PrideBlue Ridge Pride seeks to support our rural LGBTQ+ community in partnership with the many wonderful people and organizations who are only too eager to help. AIDS Care Services of Winston-SalemA nonprofit health and social services agency providing a broad range of programs and services for clients throughout Northwest North Carolina infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Rainbow Seniors ROC helps older adults live their “best lives”, get connected to the community, engaged in enjoyable activities, and securely linked to the social services they need to thrive.
Stigma is perhaps the most important factor to address in LGBTQ+ mental health. While LGBTQ+ mental health is an issue worth taking seriously at any age, it is of special concern when it comes to young adults, children, and teens. The numbers are eight times higher for transgender adults compared to the general U.S. population. It is critical that if you are a member of this community or care about someone who is, you know the signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors as well as preventative strategies.
Trauma-Informed Care
In medical settings, LGBTQ+ people can be misgendered, judged for their sexual behavior, and blamed for having or transmitting sexually transmitted diseases. Many people in the LGBTQ+ community fear getting medical assistance, even for conditions that are unrelated to their identity. Discrimination and bullying are two major consequences of claiming one’s identity and can have adverse effects on LGBTQ+ mental health. Young people often forge connections in school, clubs, sports, and other social groups.
- Historically, third spaces for the LGBTQ+ community have often been bars, clubs, and ballroom communities.
- Reinforcing people’s agency by calling them the correct name and pronouns is proven to reduce suicidal behaviors by over 60%.
- Lyon-Martin Health ServicesLyon-Martin Health Services is a community health organization dedicated to comprehensive, inclusive healthcare for heterosexual, bisexual, lesbian, and transgender women.
- We are committed to prioritising those most in need, with the fewest resources, and those who face discrimination on many levels.
They offer primary care for all ages, gender affirming hormones using an informed consent model, LGBTQ+ knowledgable healthcare, HIV care, PrEP, sexual health, gyn care, and fertility assistance. The IYG offers a variety of wellness and education programs, including HIV/STI testing and support groups. Gender Expansive Kids & Company (GEKCO)GEKCO provides confidential support, resources, and camaraderie to families of transgender children ages 12 and under. Phoenix CenterThe Phoenix Center in Springfield, IL offers a variety of groups and services including transitional housing programs, STI testing, harm reduction programs, youth groups, bisexual groups, and trans groups.
The Montrose CenterThe Montrose Center offers HIV/AIDS counseling, group therapy, and life counseling. Metro Health STD/HIV ClinicThe Metro Health STD and HIV Prevention and Control Program provides evaluation and diagnosis of STD infections, as well as treatment and counseling for most STDs. CommUnityCareProvides services at various locations and 3 partner locations throughout Travis County and surrounding counties.