Research has found that members of the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to experience poor mental health than those who are not part of the community, with 50% experiencing depression and 3 in 5 experiencing anxiety.

Being LGBTQ+ doesn’t mean someone will have mental health issues but may mean they’re at higher risk of experiencing poor mental health. Discrimination, homophobia or transphobia, social isolation, rejection, and difficult experiences of coming out can all impact someone’s mental health and wellbeing. This is why it’s important that we are aware of the different ways that we can support ourselves and other people in the LGBTQ+ community.

There are many ways that we can come together to tackle stigma, address discrimination and support young people who may be struggling with their identity. Take a look at the resources we have compiled below. 

For families, parents, carers and friends

• Strong Family Alliance have created an LGBQ Parent Guide which includes information around supporting your child in their coming out journey.
• Place2B have written an article around the steps that can be taken to actively help children develop positive gender identities. They have also shared a piece which explains how to help your child navigate the different stages of sexual development.

For schools

• Rebecca Wilkinson-Quinn has written an article for Place2Be giving advice on creating an environment within schools where students feel valued and heard.
• Stonewall offer training and resources to help make your educational setting more inclusive, by challenging bullying and celebrating diversity. Their Getting Started Toolkit for primary and secondary schools can aid in tackling homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying.

Bradford District and Craven Mind are here to support you

• Our children and young people’s service, Youth in Mind is here to support anyone living in Bradford District and Craven aged between 5 and 19 (or up to 25 with additional needs such as special educational needs and disabilities). Explore all the services and make a referral for yourself or someone else using the online referral form.
• For additional confidential and emotional support call Guide-Line on 08001 884 884  or chat to us online.
• You can also access urgent support through our Safe Spaces service.
• AND you can catch us at Bradford Pride on the 8th of July!