LGBTQIA+ Pride and Mental Health: Rising Above the Noise

By: Jules B., CADC (She/They)

            June was Pride Month, a time for the LGBTQIA+ community to celebrate the opportunity to be seen, accepted, and embraced for who we are. For members of the LGBTQIA+ community who struggle with mental health issues, we know all too well that our issues don’t take a month off to celebrate. We know that the stigma and discrimination surrounding our community and mental health disorders don’t take the month off to give us peace.

            In addition to internal struggles, we’re also faced with a lack of acceptance and increased stigma in our environments. We saw hopeful, joyful stories posted by news outlets on social media about Pride, but if we break the cardinal rule of the internet (do NOT read the comments section!) it is easy to feel defeated, and often reminds us that visibility is not always safe. So, how do we find the hope to keep going and the love and acceptance that Pride Month stands for within ourselves beyond the month of June?

            First, in case no one has told you recently, I want you to know: THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH YOU. You are a beautiful human, working with the hand you were dealt, who is just doing the best they can to get through this thing we call life; and that’s all anyone need ask of you. Second, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. While there is anger and ignorance shouting at our beautiful community, we can lean on our fellow LGBTQIA+ folks and allies to help muffle that noise and remind us that we are amazing people, just the way we are. Seek support from safe places, including support groups for mental health. Safe spaces do exist, and one of the most powerful antidotes to shame and stigma is connection.

            If you are an ally to the community, we thank you for standing beside us and amplifying our voices. Together, we can drown out the noise of those who would try to tear us down. Together, we can help each other know what it means to belong and to be accepted and embraced for all of our unique personalities and quirks. When others want to tear us down, try turning anger into pity; it’s difficult to remain angry with someone you pity. Instead of meeting ignorance on its level, we rise above. How miserable some of these folks are who have nothing better to do than tear others down; others who aren’t hurting anyone but just living their most genuine, authentic lives. How wonderful it is that we can come together and celebrate love and humanity! We are truly the fortunate ones, and those who try to make us feel otherwise are just upset that the grass is greener on our side of the fence. Let them shout into the void instead of tending to their own side of the fence. We might be able to hear them, but we do not need to listen.

*At NAMI KDK, we believe no one should navigate mental health challenges alone. Whether you are seeking support, resources, or community, we are here to walk alongside you. Healing begins with connection, and every step forward matters.*