Happy Pride Month! During June, we’d like to feature mental health resources that can help us to support LGBTQ+ youth.
Have you heard of The Trevor Project? The Trevor Project is a nonprofit organization that helps to prevent suicide among young members of the LGBTQ+ community. If you need to speak to someone, The Trevor Project may be a great resource. On their website, you can chat, call, or text a counselor.
If you or someone you know is planning to harm themselves, please get immediate help by calling 911.
LGBTQ+ resources below from the Human Rights Campaign:
2023 Youth Report for Parents & Caregivers
“31% of LGBTQ+ youth have not yet disclosed their sexual orientation to their parents.”
2023 Youth Report for Educators & Administrators
“Almost half (46.1%) of LGBTQ+ youth, including over half (53.9%) of transgender and gender expansive youth, reported feeling unsafe in at least one school setting.”
For Librarians/Media Specialists
“9 in 10 (88.7%) LGBTQ+ youth reported that they usually or always feel safe in their school library.”
For Mental Health Professionals
“55.1% of LGBTQ+ youth, including 60% of transgender and gender expansive youth, screened positive for depression.”
There are many ways to support LGBTQ+ youth. Supporting friends and family and being a trusted ally is the easiest way to begin. Talking openly about the topic is a great way to help reduce the stigma.
NYS Regional Specific Resources
Have you visited the New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB)’s website? The NYSCB has a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) webpage. Here, you can find regionally specific LGBTQ+ resources in your community. The NYSCB treats everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.
Your local library is a free resource that you can use to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community and history. Ask your local librarian for book recommendations that explore LGBTQ+ experiences. You can also visit Common Sense Media’s reading recommendations, broken down by age. These books portray many aspects of the LGBTQ+ experience.
For more LGBTQ+ resources, visit NYS TINRC’s resources page.