Pride Month

The month of June is known as Pride Month for many. Marked by festive parades, inclusive activities, and colorful clothes, Pride Month is the time for LGBTQ+ people to celebrate what makes them a community and strengthen the connection they have with their identities.

However, it’s also important to recognize Pride Month as more than just a party. It serves as a remembrance of those who participated and made change for LGBTQ+ members through the Stonewall Riots in 1969. It is through their advocacy and persistence that today’s Queer community has a louder voice and stable presence in all it does.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean the work is over yet. While Pride Month may be filled with acceptance and visibility, the stigma and discrimination that comes with being queer have never fully disappeared. This is why it is important to acknowledge the heightened struggle LGBTQ+ people face with mental health.

According to the Trevor Projects 2021 survey, 42% of queer people have seriously considered attempting suicide within the past year and 62% have reported symptoms of depression within the last two weeks.

And for those who face more than one type of discrimination, such as BIPOC queer people, the likelihood of experiencing mental health issues increases significantly.

So, as you celebrate Pride, remember to reach out to your fellow community members or allies or anyone in need and offer your support in any way possible. Sometimes, it’s as simple as lending a shoulder to cry on while other times it might take some professional help. Either way, it’s always worth the effort of getting involved and helping someone out.

Happy Pride!

Listed below are some LGBTQ-friendly resources:

• The Trevor Project – www.thetrevorproject.org or 866-488-7386 to speak to a crisis counselor.

• LGBT national help center hotline – 1-888-843-4564

• PLFAG – www.pflag.org/hotlines to find a list of support hotlines.

• For even more resources, click the “Resources” tab on the menu selection.