A rainbow flag held aloft at a Pride parade.

Why Mental Health Is Important for LGBTQ2S+ Youth

Members of the LGBTQ2S+ community deserve accessible and supportive mental health care

Understanding and embracing your identity is a crucial part of a healthy psyche. There’s much more to consider in terms of mental health and LGBTQ2S+ youth, too. 

No matter what community you’re part of or how you identify, you could struggle with depression, benefit from relationship counselling, or want to work with a counsellor to address a wide variety of concerns.

You can take advantage of a convenient, easily accessible support system that recognizes the importance of mental health for the LGBTQ2S+ community. Our team understands the disparities LGBTQ2S+ youth face, and focuses on effective, inclusive care.

Why is mental health for LGBTQ2S+ youth important? 

Members of the LGBTQ2S+ community experience a variety of mental health challenges due to issues with some elements of society accepting their identities. Family rejection, housing discrimination, and access to public accommodations are just a few examples.

LGBTQ2S+ youth mental health is especially important. Younger members of this group face discriminatory and bigoted treatment during a pivotal period of development.

Most LGBTQ2s+ youth with mental health concerns will be able to overcome their struggles and will thrive in the face of adversity. Help from family, friends, and qualified professionals can be critical. A counsellor can help you identify specific issues and work with you to reduce their impact on your day-to-day life.

What problems do LGBTQ2S+ youth face?

There are many mental health disparities and biased, negative circumstances faced by young members of the LGBTQ2S+ community. 

Statistics Canada explained 77% of sexually- and gender-diverse youth between the ages of 15 and 17 reported having to deal with bullying behaviours. That’s significantly more than the 69% of cisgender, exclusively-opposite-sex attracted young people who experienced some type of bullying.

This lack of acceptance can lead to interference with daily life. Depression, anxiety, and even thoughts of self-harm can emerge. Remember that you deserve support from a professional. Accessing counselling from a convenient location, like your living room or bedroom, can make the process that much easier. 

Why is inclusion important for young people in the LGBTQ2S+ community?

Inclusion is essential to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable in their skin and surroundings.

Young members of the LGBTQ2S+ community experience higher rates of victimization in school based on their sexual orientation, which can lead to higher rates of depression and lower self-esteem. A lack of inclusion can quickly lead to widespread problems.

An inclusive environment is an accepting and positive one, focused on celebrating differences instead of dismissing them. A counsellor can help you navigate your community, supporting you as you find sources of acceptance that are so important to mental health.

How we can help

At Wellin5, we’re committed to helping young people in the LGBTQ2S+ community who are struggling with their mental health. It doesn’t matter where you’re located or if a nearby mental health professional is taking new patients. With Wellin5, everyone can conveniently and securely meet with a counsellor and start receiving valuable support today.
Feeling like you need support? A Wellin5 counsellor is available.