It’s June again, and Pride month this year may feel uniquely challenging for many in our community. For some, this month brings bold feelings of empowerment. For others, this time may feel darker, scarier, and overwhelming – especially when facing personal struggles that can make celebrating feel difficult.
The Reality We Face
Though being part of the LGBTQ+ community is in no way a mental illness, many people who identify as LGBTQ+ experience mental health struggles. About 4.5% of the US population identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. Of these individuals, 39% report living with a mental illness – that’s nearly 5.8 million people in the US alone who need support.
The challenges extend far beyond mental health awareness. A majority of people who responded to a survey conducted by Mental Health America say that they or someone they love who is LGBTQ+ have been threatened, harassed, or experienced violence due to their sexuality or gender identity.
The employment discrimination is staggering: 59% of respondents feel they have fewer employment opportunities or have experienced discrimination in pay due to their LGBTQ+ identity. This economic instability directly impacts housing security and overall well-being.
In addition, 22% of transgender individuals reported avoiding medical care out of concern about discrimination. This avoidance of care compounds existing challenges and creates cycles that are difficult to break without comprehensive support.
Breaking Down Barriers to Care
When it comes to mental health care and housing services, a lack of cultural understanding, stigma, and discriminatory practices can decrease the quality and effectiveness of support. This leaves individuals feeling unsupported and discourages them from seeking the help they desperately need.
A housing first approach recognizes that stable housing is fundamental to addressing mental health, employment, and other life challenges. For LGBTQ+ individuals facing multiple forms of discrimination, finding safe support becomes even more critical.
We’re Here for You
At Thrive in Hendersonville, we welcome all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, or economic status. To us, people are people. Everyone has a unique background, perspective, struggles, and needs that deserve respect and comprehensive support.
Our programs are designed to meet you exactly where you are, providing individualized care to help you build a foundation for stability and growth.
Our Housing Program provides support for neighbors experiencing homelessness. Our case managers work one-on-one with clients to discover their unique needs and create a plan for the best chance of success.
Our Clubhouse Program offers a mental health day program for adults diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness. This program provides a supportive environment where all identities are celebrated, not stigmatized. Our day program serves as a vital resource for building connections and developing skills to reach individual goals.
Both programs work with each person to create personalized plans that address their unique circumstances and goals.
Additional Resources for LGBTQ+ Support
For more specified help, here are a few national resources that may help:
- Mental Health Resources: Mental Health America LGBTQ+ Resource Center
- Directory of LGBTQ+ Friendly Providers: LGBTQ Healthcare Directory
- LGBTQ+ National Help Center: LGBT National Hotline
- Resources for Transgender Individuals: National Center for Transgender Equality
Remember, Pride isn’t just about celebration – it’s about resilience, community, and the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. Whether you’re facing housing challenges, mental health struggles, or simply need a supportive community, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.
Want to learn more about our programs or how you can get involved? Contact us at 828-697-1581 today.
