Attitude

Ally: A person who is not LGBTQ but uses their privilege to support LGBTQ people and promote equality. Allies "stand up and speak out even when the people they're allying for aren't there," said Robin McHaelen, founder and executive director of True Colors, a non-profit that provides support for LGBTQ youth and their families. In other words, not just at pride parades

Homophobia Discrimination, prejudice, fear or hatred toward people who are attracted to members of the same sex.

Biphobia Discrimination, prejudice, fear or hatred toward bisexual people.

Transphobia Prejudice toward trans people.

Sex positive An attitude that views sexual expression and sexual pleasure, if it's healthy and consensual, as a good thing

If you live with a mental health condition and identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning (LGBTQ), it’s important to prioritize your mental health. Not all members of the LGBTQ community will have the same experiences. However, discrimination, prejudice, denial of civil and human rights, harassment and family rejection are still tragically common for people with these identities.

LGBTQ people with mental health conditions may also find themselves fighting a double stigma. Many will experience prejudice based on their sexual and/or gender identity as well as the stigma associated with mental illness. Confronting these challenges and mental health symptoms with an LGBTQ-inclusive therapist can lead to better outcomes, and even recovery.

Early intervention, comprehensive treatment and family support are key to helping LGBTQ people live well with a mental health condition. But many people in this community struggle in silence—and face worse health outcomes as a result.

LGB adults are more than twice as likely as heterosexual adults to experience a mental health condition

LGBTQ people are at a higher risk than the general population for suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts

High school students who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual are almost five times as likely to attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual peers

48% of all transgender adults report that they have considered suicide in the past 12 months, compared to 4% of the overall US population

Support & Resources

The American Psychological Association (APA) provides countless educational and support resources on a range of LGBTQ topics

The Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Issues in Counseling delivers educational and support resources for LGBTQ individuals, as well as promoting competency on LGBTQ issues for counseling professionals

The Association of Gay and Lesbian Psychiatrists offers numerous resources for LGBT individuals experiencing mental health conditions and psychiatric professionals with LGBT clients

The National Center for Transgender Equality offers resources for transgender individuals, including information on the right to access health care