Learning to yourself and dealing with their people’s perception of you, can be hard for anyone. This process can be especially stressful or tough for those who are LGBTQI. They can face unique issues when it comes to mental health. The discrimination LGBTQI may face or the pressure they feel from their family and community can put them at great risk. For emotional health struggles, like depression, anxiety, substance abuse and even suicide. If you or someone you know struggle with issues related to sexuality or pressure of not being accepted by family, friends or community it’s important to speak up and seek help. LGBTQI individual who are dealing with mental health conditions like depression may have to content with even more stigma because of discrimination or misunderstanding related to their sexual orientation having to deal with additional stigma can worse mental health conditions.
Some tips of overcoming stigma are to surround yourself with supportive people. Check to see if your school or community has an LGBTQI group it’s a great way to find people who can relate to that you are going through.
SEEK HELP- If you are experiencing sadness, anxiety or stress that interfering with your ability to get things done and not fulfil life, make an appointment with a mental health counsellor, it is the first step to healing. Remember it has nothing to do with you, society create stigma about many groups. Remember that others reaction to your sexual identity are not your fault.
Listen and emphasize, you might feel a variety of emotions like confusion surprise and sadness. When it’s about friend a sexual orientation or emotional health issues. This is to be expected, they are normal responses, when talking to them don’t interrupt and remain open to what they are saying. Avoid judging them and try putting yourself in their shoes.
Get Education and Learn more about mental illness and concerns that LGBTQI individuals might have, this helps you better understand what your friend is going through and how to help.
By Meagan Biggs