Mental Health and the LGBTQ+ Community: Navigating Stress in Challenging Times
COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - This Pride Month, ongoing protests, immigration fears, and rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric are weighing heavily on the community. As these tensions escalate, concern for mental health is only deepening.
According to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, this is resulting higher rates of depression, anxiety, and trauma among LGBTQ+ individuals.
The need for help is growing, but not because of a lack of resources, rather some are still hesitant to seek help.
“A lot of our LGBTQIA+ patients have a history of discrimination, bullying, rejection… so when you have experienced those things from people that are in your direct environment, its hard to think people who don’t know me are going to act any different.”
Melissa Hawkins, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation clinical supervisor
Still amid the tensions, advocates say there's hope, with more people stepping up to create spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals feel valued and cared for.
“When individuals are able to see there are community members that they don’t know… that there are voices advocating… saying ‘we’re here for you,’ I think it can help feel less scary knowing that there is a community at large that does support you and willing to speak up.”
Melissa Hawkins, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation clinical supervisor
Experts recommend those struggling to reach out to a close family member or friend. The first step is openly expressing how you are feeling.
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