How to Support LGBTQIA+ Mental Health

Supporting the mental health of LGBTQIA+ individuals is essential for fostering a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Many queer people face unique challenges such as discrimination, internalised shame, and gender dysphoria, which can impact their wellbeing. This blog post explores practical ways to provide affirming mental health support, highlights the importance of accessible resources, and shares how services like Be/Here can make a real difference.

Why It’s Important to Support LGBTQIA+ Mental Health

Mental health support tailored to LGBTQIA+ people is not just beneficial - it’s necessary. Queer individuals often experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout due to societal pressures and stigma. Affirming therapy and community support can help reduce these risks by creating safe spaces where identities are respected and understood.

Here are some key reasons why specialised support matters:

• Identity Safety: Many LGBTQIA+ people have faced rejection or misunderstanding. Therapy that respects their identity helps build trust and healing.

• Addressing Specific Challenges: Issues like gender dysphoria or internalised homophobia require knowledgeable, sensitive approaches.

• Community Connection: Peer support groups and workshops foster belonging and reduce isolation.

• Accessible Care: Affordable or free resources ensure that financial barriers don’t prevent people from getting help.

  
  

If you or someone you know is looking for affirming mental health support, Be/Here offers therapy services, free workshops, and workplace Lunch & Learn sessions designed specifically for LGBTQIA+ needs.

How to Support LGBTQIA+ Mental Health in Practical Ways

Supporting LGBTQIA+ mental health involves more than just good intentions. It requires action, education, and ongoing commitment. Here are practical steps individuals, families, workplaces, and organisations can take:

For Individuals Seeking Support

• Find Affirming Therapists: Look for therapists who explicitly state they are LGBTQIA+ friendly or specialise in queer mental health.

• Join Peer Support Groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences can be empowering.

• Use Free Workshops: Many organisations offer skills-based workshops on topics like emotional regulation and burnout prevention.

• Practice Self-Compassion: Affirmations and micro-skills can help manage internalised shame and build resilience.

  
  

For Parents and Carers

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the unique mental health challenges LGBTQIA+ youth face.

• Create a Safe Home Environment: Use affirming language and respect your child’s identity.

• Access Support Resources: Attend free workshops designed for parents and carers to build skills and confidence.

• Listen and Validate: Sometimes, just being heard without judgement is the most powerful support.

  
  

For Workplaces

• Implement Inclusive Training: Book Lunch & Learn sessions that focus on LGBTQIA+ mental health and emotional regulation.

• Promote Mental Health Resources: Share information about affirming therapy and peer support groups.

• Create Safe Spaces: Encourage open conversations and visibly support Pride beyond just posters.

• Prevent Burnout: Equip teams with tools to manage stress and emotional wellbeing.

  
  

For Community Organisations

• Build Referral Networks: Partner with LGBTQIA+ affirming services to signpost clients safely.

• Collaborate on Workshops: Co-host events that address queer mental health topics.

• Offer Introductory Chats: Provide opportunities for clients to explore support options without pressure.

• Share Resources Widely: Use social media and newsletters to raise awareness of available services.

  
  
  
  
  
  

Was LGBTQ Considered a Mental Illness?

Historically, LGBTQ identities were wrongly classified as mental illnesses. This harmful misconception caused immense stigma and discrimination. For example, homosexuality was listed as a mental disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) until 1973. Similarly, transgender identities were pathologised for decades.

Thankfully, modern psychology recognises that being LGBTQIA+ is not a disorder. Instead, mental health challenges often arise from external factors like discrimination, rejection, and societal pressures. This shift has led to more affirming and identity-safe approaches in therapy.

Understanding this history is crucial for:

• Challenging Stigma: Recognising past harms helps dismantle ongoing prejudice.

• Promoting Affirming Care: Therapy now focuses on supporting identity and wellbeing, not “fixing” someone.

• Empowering Communities: Knowledge of this history validates lived experiences and encourages advocacy.

  
  

Services like Be/Here are committed to providing trauma-informed, affirming mental health support that honours this progress.

How Be/Here Supports LGBTQIA+ Mental Health

Be/Here offers a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. Their approach is grounded in real talk, validation, and practical skills. Here’s what you can expect:

• Person-Centred Therapy: Tailored to your unique identity and experiences, focusing on your goals.

• Free Workshops: Covering topics like emotional regulation, burnout prevention, and peer support.

• Peer Support Groups: Safe spaces to connect, share, and grow with others.

• Workplace Lunch & Learn Sessions: Practical training for businesses to create inclusive environments.

  
  

Booking a session or joining a workshop is easy. You can:

• Book now through their website

• DM on Instagram or TikTok to find out more

• Tag a friend who might benefit from support

• Save posts for when you need encouragement

  
  

By choosing Be/Here, you’re accessing a community-first, trauma-informed service that truly gets you.

Creating a Culture of Affirmation and Care

Supporting LGBTQIA+ mental health is a collective effort. Whether you are seeking support, caring for a loved one, managing a team, or working in community services, your role matters. Here are some final tips to foster affirmation and care:

• Listen Without Judgement: Validate feelings and experiences.

• Use Affirming Language: Respect names, pronouns, and identities.

• Promote Accessibility: Share information about free or affordable resources.

• Encourage Self-Care: Remind people that prioritising mental health is a strength.

• Celebrate Progress: Highlight stories of resilience and community support.

  
  

Remember, you deserve therapy and support that truly understands and honours your identity. To explore affirming mental health services and resources, visit Be/Here.

Supporting LGBTQIA+ mental health is about creating spaces where everyone can thrive. Together, we can build a world where queer people feel safe, valued, and empowered every day.