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Pride Month 2023
June 1st - 30th
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.
Everyone experiences stress in their lives. But not everyone lives with the stress of social stigma and discrimination. When you face this because you are in a minority community, like being LGBTQIA+, we call it 'minority stress'. It means people in this group live with higher stress compared to the general population. Living with minority stresses can have an impact on physical and mental health.
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.
"I felt quite alone when I first came out... but ironically the more people I spoke to about it, the more people also opened up to me about their own identities."
It's important to remember that embracing LGBTQIA+ identity can also have a positive impact on wellbeing. It might mean we have: increased confidence ; improved relationships with friends and family; a sense of community and belonging; the freedom of self-expression and self-acceptance; increased resilience.
Homophobia, biphobia and transphobia mean negative attitudes, assumptions and feelings towards LGBTQIA+ people. This might be directed at you from people close to you, strangers, and wider society. You may even face homophobia, biphobia or transphobia from other LGBTQIA+ people.
If those around you don't accept you, you may feel excluded and rejected from important parts of your life. This might include family, work, social events and faith communities. These connections are often important parts of our identities. Feeling cut off from them can make you feel isolated, lonely and insecure.
This is very upsetting, but it's important to remember that it is not your fault, and you are not alone. Other LGBTQIA+ people have faced similar struggles, and may understand what you're going through.
You can find more information and support resources on Bath Mind’s website
LGBTQ+ Mental Health - Bath Mind
If you identify as LGBTQ+, live in B&NES, and need support for your mental wellbeing, please reach out. Our Access to Mental Health team consists of experienced professionals who will accompany you every step of the way. Contact us at 0808 175 1369; we're available Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.
To learn more about how you or your organisation can support the mental health needs of those you live and work with, Bath Mind offers a wide range of mental health training courses. Head to our website to find out more… Training - Bath Mind
Bath Mind is a local, independent charity, here to support the mental health and wellbeing of all those living in BaNES. If you need support with your mental health, Bath Mind is here for you. Our Access to Mental Health team consists of experienced professionals who will accompany you every step of the way. Contact us at 0808 175 1369; we're available Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Bath Mind
10 Westgate Street | Bath | BA1 1EQ
01225 316199
admin@bathmind.org.uk
Registered in England 3531040
Charity No. 1069403
