Trigger warning: This article discusses mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide. Please take care of yourself and avoid reading if these topics could be triggering.
June is here, bringing the start of summer, warm sunny days perfect for outdoor activities, and a beautiful array of rainbow flags to celebrate Pride Month! As we embrace this season of joy and individuality, it’s essential to recognize the unique challenges the LGBTQIA+ community faces daily.
Mental Health and the LGBTQIA+ Community
Did you know that approximately 4.5% of the U.S. population identifies as gay, lesbian, or bisexual? Mental health is a significant concern within this community, with over 39% of LGBTQIA+ individuals reporting having a mental illness in the past year – that’s roughly 5.8 million people! This high prevalence is linked to social stigma, discrimination, and the denial of civil and human rights, often leading to psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, and suicide. The transgender community is particularly vulnerable, especially given the often unstable and hostile political climate. In the last year, 48% of transgender adults reported having considered suicide, compared to just 4% of the overall population.
Homelessness and Housing Instability
The stigma and discrimination faced by the LGBTQIA+ community extend beyond individual mental health. In 2022, 28% of LGBTQIA+ youth reported experiencing homelessness or housing instability at some point in their lives. This alarming statistic often stems from rejection by caregivers or parents due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Additionally, fear of discrimination or harassment from community resources or peers can make seeking support difficult.
Thrive’s Promise
At Thrive, we are dedicated to ending the stigma. Our services are open to everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. We believe there should be no barriers to stable housing and mental health support, and we are here to help our community thrive.
As we celebrate Pride Month and the resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community, we encourage everyone to hold space for those who may be struggling with their mental health. If you or someone you know could benefit from Thrive’s services, please reach out to us at 828-697-1581.