People who identify as LGBTQIA+ are at higher risk of experiencing several mental health challenges—not because of who they are as people, but because of the stigmatization of queer identities that still exists in our culture. This can make it hard to live a fully expressed and fulfilled life as an LGBTQIA+ individual while also making it difficult to seek help without fear of judgment. But it’s important to know that queerness is not a mental illness, and seeking help is not a sign of weakness.
If you identify as LGBTQIA+, here are some ways you can take care of your mental health:
1. Prioritize your mental and emotional wellness. Being aware of your mental health challenges and the ways you can address them is a helpful first step in gaining the confidence to seek support. But beyond this, understanding that your mental health matters is fundamental. Start an exploration into how to optimize your mental and emotional wellness by reading books, following reputable mental health influencers, listening to podcasts, and learning about tools and practices you can incorporate into your daily life.
- Practice self-care. Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential to your overall wellness. Eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and practicing good hygiene can all help reduce stress and improve your mood. You can also practice mindfulness, meditation, movement, and other relaxation techniques to help you become the calmest, most centered, most clear-minded version of yourself.
- Surround yourself with support. For LGBTQIA+ identified people, community is everything. It’s important to find people who will see you, support you, celebrate you, and make you feel safe. This could be friends, family, members of local community groups, or an LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist. Online groups and communities can also offer a supportive space to connect with others whose experiences are similar to yours.
4. Know your rights. The LGBTQIA+ community has made great strides in recent years, but in many parts of the country, discrimination and bigotry still exist. Know your rights and be aware of the resources available to you in case of discrimination or mistreatment.
5. Seek mental health care when needed. If you feel like your mental health challenges are impacting your daily life, seek professional help. A licensed mental health professional who practices LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment where you can open up about what you’re experiencing, address your concerns, and develop tools and skills to help you navigate your world in an authentic and empowered way.
Taking care of your mental health as an LGBTQIA+ individual can be challenging, but it’s essential to your overall wellbeing. By finding support, educating yourself, practicing self-care, knowing your rights, and seeking help when needed, you can overcome the struggles you’re facing and live a fulfilling, connected, and fully expressed life.
