Counselling accessibility is key to maintaining positive mental health for all Canadians. But it is especially important to take care of those who are at a higher risk for struggling with mental health, like LGBTQ2S+ individuals. While LGBTQ2S+ rights have come a long way, the community still faces many issues surrounding inequality, safety, and mental health. That’s why it’s so important to offer accessible LGBTQ2S+ counselling.
The LGBTQ2S+ counselling and the mental health landscape
- LGBTQ2S+ individuals still face stigma, discrimination, and socioeconomic inequality such as trouble finding employment or housing.
- In Canada, they are over twice as likely to experience mental health struggle than the general population.
- 39% of the lesbian, gay, and transgender US population reported having a mental illness in the past year.
There is still a lot of work to do in order to give the LGBTQ2S+ community the resources and social equality they need to thrive and maintain positive mental health. Accessible LGBTQ2S+ counselling can help support individuals in the community through these difficulties.
Seeking help*
At Wellin5, we believe everyone deserves access to the mental health support they need to not just survive — but to thrive. A counsellors can help those in the LGBTQ2S+ community process difficult emotions, tap into their true selves, and live their fullest lives. Wellin5’s online counsellors provide online counselling for anyone, anywhere in Canada. They’re equipped to support the LGBTQ2S+ community through struggles, as well as day-to-day issues. Sign up today to get matched with a counsellor and start getting the help you need.
How to support those struggling with their mental health
It can be difficult to know what to say to someone struggling with their mental health. The most important thing is to approach with empathy and open mindedness. Read our full guide on what to say and how to navigate the conversation.
Other resources:
- Kids Help Phone: Children and youth ages 5 to 20 can speak with trained cousellors at Kids Health Phone (1-800-668-6868).
- Lesbian, Gay, Bi & Trans Youthline: The Lesbian, Gay, Bi & Trans Youthline offers free peer support for youth aged 26 and under (1-800-268-9688).
- Parents, Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG): PFLAG (www.pflagcanada.ca) is a resource for LGBT people and their families.
- Rainbow Health and CMHA Ontario Report on mental health and the LGBTQ2S+ community
*If you are suicidal or experiencing a crisis, please do not use Wellin5 services and instead, contact 911 and/or the National Canadian Helpline at 1-800-273-8255 or the National Crisis textline via SMS at: 686868