Why Pride Matters for LGBTQ Mental Health

Jun 4

June is Pride Month and I am celebrating the courage, joy, and IDENTITY of my LGBTQ neighbors and friends. I want to kick off the month by talking a little bit about why Pride Month is so crucial for lgbtq mental health.

If you’ve been following this blog for any length of time, you know I love to dive into the root causes behind the mental health struggles we face on the daily. I find that I often, if not almost always, end up back at childhood trauma wounds when I do this deep dive. For lgbtq folks, that goes double. Growing up LGBTQ+ can be beyond challenging. Many carry the weight of childhood wounds stemming from stigma, discrimination, and shame. This heavy burden inevitably impacts self-esteem, self-identity, and the kind of healthy sense of belonging that translates into healthy intimacy in adulthood.

This "Outcast dynamic"-- created by societal pressures to be heteronormative, creates a “high risk” profile because of internalized self-blame/shame. Studies show clearly that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance use compared to their heterosexual counterparts. They are more susceptible to suicidality, substance use/abuse, partner abuse, and more.

But Gay Pride and the observance of Pride Month every June is a powerful antidote to these challenges. This celebration of self-love, acceptance, and belonging helps to create a space where LGBTQ+ individuals can be fully and authentically themselves, surrounded by others who understand and celebrate their identities. This sense of belonging is a vital part of healing, giving lgbtq+ humans a safe space, and loving permission to shed the shame and fear that often come with feeling different. Instead, they can revel in joy, acceptance, and a sense of community. This creates a profound impact on their mental and emotional well-being, and the trickle-down effect touches every part of their mental health struggles.

Of course, Pride is just one piece of the puzzle. We still need to work towards a world where LGBTQ+ people are fully accepted and have access to the resources and support they need. It's about fostering a culture of inclusivity and acceptance year-round. We can all be allies by actively listening, learning about LGBTQ+ experiences, and challenging harmful stereotypes. But Pride serves as a powerful recognition of the determination and beauty of the human spirit. It's a celebration of resilience, strength, and the beauty of diversity.

So, to the LGBTQ+ community, I see you. I celebrate you. And I stand with you in the fight for equality and acceptance.

Remember, you are worthy of love, respect, and joy. Happy Pride!

Here are some resources specific to LGBTQ mental health support:

NAMI Pride

Direct Online & Phone Support Services for LGBTQ+ Youth

Suicide Prevention for LGBTQ+ Young People

North County LGBTQ Resource Center

Mental Health Resources in the LGBTQ+ Community

LGBTQ+ Crisis/Suicide Prevention Hotlines

*Not LGBTQ+ specific but LGBTQ+ inclusive

Transgender Community