Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Mental Health Treatment
By Judy Bokao
Mental Health is the state of well-being that allows individuals to cope with the day-to-day activities of life. Currently, poor mental health is one of the modern epidemics affecting many people all over the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in every 8 people in the world live with a mental disorder. And the LGBTQ+ community is even more likely to experience mental health issues.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, queer people are 2.5 times more likely to experience mental health issues than heterosexual individuals. This is because of the different sets of challenges the community experiences in their daily lives. These challenges, such as bullying, homophobia, violence and trauma, struggles of coming out, transitions, homelessness and many more, heighten the risk of mental health conditions.
There is also the fact that many LGBTQ+ individuals have limited access to supportive healthcare. According to the Center for American Progress, queer individuals often avoid health care and experience discrimination when they visit hospitals for treatment. Even though the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tried to deal with these issues and ban healthcare providers and insurance companies from discriminating against the community, the problem persists.
Even without discrimination, the number of institutions offering mental health care specific to LGBTQ+ people has only increased by 3 per cent in the past decade. It is still challenging to find LGBTQ+-conscious support from certified mental health professionals.
If you are wondering where to start and what to do to get some mental health help as a queer individual, then look no further, we’ve got you! First, decide what type of specialist you need. Usually, it is best to start by talking to a therapist or psychologist who can, in turn, recommend you to a psychiatrist if you need one.
It is advisable to look into an LGBTQ+ friendly therapist or psychologist specifically. Check if they have any experience working with the LGBTQ+ community. Generally this is indicated in their online professional profiles. If they do have it listed, don’t be afraid to ask what they specialize in regarding LGBTQ+-related issues. This will help you determine whether they are just “friendly” or have experience.
The best way to find out their experience is through referrals. Most local LGBTQ+ centers have a wealthy database of information and resources about local mental healthcare providers. Use this information and check the reviews left online by their patients.
Once you find a mental health provider you would be comfortable with, feel free to call them. You can call and ask any questions you have. Ask about their experience in the issue you would like to help with, their research focus, and the type of therapy they offer clients. Make sure you feel safe in their responses and have aligned values before choosing a mental health provider. Words like conversion therapy should have you running the other way!
There are also resources one can use when they are feeling overwhelmed and need help urgently. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact someone on our mental health crisis resource lists: Call a Counselor Now and Text a Counselor Now. You will receive help from trained professionals who will help you and refer you to additional resources that can help you cope with suicidal ideation. Never be afraid to seek help.
If you are unsure about your local mental health providers, you can reach out to other organizations that offer different resources to the LGBTQ+ community, namely:
The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association’s Provider Directory offers information on LGBTQ-friendly healthcare professionals in America and Canada.
The LGBT National Help Center helps educate LGBTQ+ people about mental health, LGBTQ+ history and media by providing safe chat rooms, call lines, and informational lists.
The Trevor Project is a treasure trove with limitless educational resources about LGBTQ+ mental health. They also have a 24/7 hotline you can call in time of a crisis.
Trans Lifeline is an organization started by the transgender community, operated by transgender people, and is meant to help transgender individuals in crisis.
The Human Rights Campaign helps to empower the LGBTQ+ Community by educating them about sexual health, advocacy, and options for long-term care.
About the Author:
Judy Bokao is 20 years old and was born in Ethiopia but relocated to Nairobi two years ago. She is passionate about everyone having equal rights and is also big on conservation and speaking up for our planet. Judy loves reading and photography and is just a free-spirited young lady trying to grow into a woman her mom can be proud of.
