In a world where acceptance and equality are still evolving, the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals faces unique challenges. As we navigate these turbulent times, it becomes crucial to explore effective strategies for healing and resilience.

Discover how Pride, community support, and everyday practices can empower and uplift the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Dive into this essential guide and find the strength within yourself and your community to overcome adversity and celebrate authenticity.

Mental Health Strategies for LGBTQ+ Individuals during Challenging Times

Pride’s Ongoing Importance

Pride has been celebrated in the U.S. since 1999. But why is it still crucial for us to hold these events today?

This global event, held each June, is essential because the LGBTQIA+ community is both healing and struggling. Common mental health concerns within the community include substance misuse, self-harm, suicide attempts, depression, trauma, and severe anxiety. The stigma surrounding mental health disorders is real. Pride is vital for healing as it:

• Celebrates life for people who identify within the community.
• Acknowledges the community’s allies.
• Continues encouraging advocacy until all people are considered diverse.
• Creates a safe celebratory space for the community to be themselves comfortably.
• Continues building our daily living and working environments as safe and supportive.

Pride’s Impact on Acceptance

It seems important to keep Pride going, but is it making a difference?

Yes, it is. Gallup polling across our country has shown the effectiveness of acknowledging and encouraging acceptance. For example, from 1996 to 2023, public opinion about same-sex marriages having the same rights as opposite-sex marriages has improved significantly. In 1996, only 28% of Americans supported equal rights for same-sex marriages, whereas in 2023, this figure rose to 71%.

Lesbian and gay individuals increasingly report feeling accepted by others, with almost half feeling very or somewhat satisfied within their peer groups as of recent polls. Moreover, the view of lesbian and gay people as morally acceptable has also improved, rising from 40% in 2001 to 64% in 2023.

However, there has been a decrease in the acceptance of people who change their gender, with moral acceptability dropping from 55% in 2021 to 43% in 2023.

Addressing Struggles and Accelerating Healing

The LGBTQIA+ community is both healing and struggling. What can we do to alleviate the struggles and accelerate the healing process?

1. Recognize Marginalization and Discrimination:
Marginalization happens to populations that are cast aside and considered the “other” group, resulting in a loss of resources and negative health outcomes. Discrimination, both overt and covert, leads to emotional, physical, and behavioral changes due to the stress experienced by marginalized individuals.

If you are experiencing discrimination and marginalization, you are not alone! Here is a list of suggestions to help:

2. Coping Strategies:

• • Believe in Overcoming: Learn from experiences and turn them into opportunities, building character, confidence, and compassion.
  • Build a Support Network: Choose your emotional support community wisely to maintain your mental health.
  • Depersonalize Discrimination: Understand that discrimination is rooted in others’ fear and lack of knowledge, not a reflection of your identity.
  • Take Action: Speak up for your needs. Join an advocacy project that gives you purpose and connection with other like-minded people.
  • Act with a Clear Head: It’s good to reflect; it’s not good to dwell. Respond thoughtfully to discrimination rather than reacting impulsively. A few minutes and a couple of deep breaths can make all the difference.
  • Seek Professional Guidance: Trust in your support network and seek help from mental health professionals when needed.

Community Engagement

Engaging with others is crucial to healing. Where can the LGBTQIA+ community go to get involved in New Orleans?

1. Parents & Friends of Lesbians and Gays: New Orleans (PFLAG) – Support for those learning to accept friends and family members who have come out. [PFLAG New Orleans]
2. New Orleans Advocates for LGBTQ+ Elders (NOAGE) – Social events for those 50+ to combat isolation and loneliness. [NOAGE NOLA]
3. Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans – A faith-based community focused on acceptance and hope. [MCC New Orleans]
4. LGBT Community Center of New Orleans – Safe space for youth with various social events. [LGBTCC New Orleans]
5. New Orleans Family Justice Center – Professional support services including legal advice, sheltering, and counseling. [NOFJC]
6. Southeast Louisiana Legal Services – Legal support and advocacy. [SLLS]

Everyday Practices for Supporting Mental Health

Supporting mental health is a daily commitment. Here are some practices that can be beneficial:

• Stay Connected: Regularly reach out to supportive friends and family.
• Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and joy, such as hobbies, exercise, or meditation.
• Set Boundaries: Protect your mental health by setting limits on interactions and environments that feel unsafe or draining.
• Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals knowledgeable about LGBTQIA+ issues.
• Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your rights and available resources. Knowledge can empower and provide comfort.
• Join Support Groups: Being part of a community that understands your experiences can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.

These practices can help maintain mental health and build resilience in challenging times.

Take the Next Step

Resilience is your greatest tool for navigating life’s challenges. By building and nurturing this skill, you can protect your mental health and thrive despite adversity. If you recognize yourself struggling, remember that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

Mental health professionals are here to support you, just like your primary care physician for physical health concerns. Early intervention leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us at Maison Vie to begin your journey to resilience and well-being.

What else should you know about how Pride can help mental health?

Learn from family and marriage therapist Susan Harrington, founder of Maison Vie, as she explores the importance of Pride, community, strength, and healing for LGBTQ+ individuals. For personalized guidance, you can request an appointment with Susan to guide you through counseling sessions.