Pride Month 2023

June is Pride Month, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and celebrating the remarkable influence of the LGBTQ+ community on our society.⁠

Pride Month is a time for both celebration and reflection, as it can bring unique challenges for those of us who identify as LGBTQ+. Some may feel excluded and unrepresented, while others may experience heightened self-consciousness or a sense of vulnerability due to increased discrimination. Additionally, there are those who have yet to come out and may feel isolated during this month of celebration.⁠
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It’s essential to recognise that anyone can face mental health issues, but studies show that LGBTQ+ individuals are more susceptible to conditions like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Let’s remember that being LGBTQ+ does not cause these problems; rather, it’s the stigma and discrimination that can contribute to them.⁠

Tips for wellbeing:

If Pride Month is causing you feelings of unease or anxiety, some things you could try that may help are:

  • Connect with others. If you’re unsure about attending events in person, consider online events focused on wellbeing and connection as a more gentle way to interact with people.
  • Prioritise self-care. Make sure you’re attending to the basics of physical self-care and looking after your day-to-day needs (food, hydration, sleep etc.). Where possible, try to take time to focus on yourself and to unwind.
  • Breathing Exercises. Connecting with the breath can help us relax, unwind and reduce levels of stress. We have a great selection of breathing exercises on our Resources webpage. 
  • Reach out. Ask for support from friends, trusted family or specialist services such as Bath Mind’s Access Community Mental Health.

Finding support:

If you’re finding things tough at the moment, please be assured that you’re not alone. Below are just some of the available support services that can help: 

  • Akt give housing and homelessness support for the LGBTQ+ community aged 18-25. Live chat is available on their website.
  • Mermaids offer confidential support for trans, non-binary and gender diverse children, young people and their families. Tel: 0808 8010 400
  • MindLine Trans+ is an emotional support helpline for those who identify as Trans, Agender, Gender Fluid and Non-binary, as well as their friends and families. Tel: 0300 330 5468 Fridays 8pm – Midnight
  • Stonewall UK give specialist advice for anyone identifying as LGBTIQ+. Tel: 020 7359 5767
  • SwitchboardLGBT+ is a safe space for anyone to discuss anything, including sexuality, gender identity, sexual health and emotional wellbeing. Tel: 0800 0119 100

For more information on LGBTQ+ mental health, visit our Resource page.

Posted on: 19th June 2023

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