Children's Mercy Pediatric Partners Inc

People who identify as LGBTQ+ are at risk of being bullied and abused, becoming depressed, and of suicide. Support from friends, family, and the community makes a huge difference.

IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS, USE ONE OF THESE RESOURCES:

988lifeline : Call, text, or chat for 988 (988lifeline.org/chat) for crisis and non-crisis mental health support and resources. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7/365. Learn more about the Lifeline: LGBTQ+ : Lifeline (988lifeline.org)
The Trevor Project offers a 24/7 crisis line for caregivers and members of the LGBTQ community: 866-488-7386

The LGBTQ+ community is diverse and made up of different experiences, identities, and challenges, but members of the community are disproportionately at-risk for suicide and other mental health struggles.

Find what you're looking for:

If you identify as LGBTQ+
If you are an ally, advocate or family member
If you want resources for family support
Books and media
Support groups - online and local
Medical clinics and resources
Pediatric Partners tips to manage depression

IF YOUIDENTIFY AS LGBQT+

Know you are not alone. Find resources at LGBTQ+ : Lifeline (988lifeline.org)
Talk to someone. Don’t keep thoughts of suicide to yourself.
Build a support network. Develop a support network in your life that will help keep you safe and that you can lean on if you feel depressed or suicidal.
Make a safety plan. Have a step-by-step plan ready for if/when you feel depressed, suicidal, or in crisis, so you can start at step one and continue through the steps until you feel safe.

BE ANALLY TO A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER WHO IDENTIFIES AS LGBQT+:

Support from family, trusted adults, and friends make all the difference for transgender children and youth.

Publicly show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Support them by affirming their identity, using their pronouns, and being committed to providing a non-judgmental and safe space for all.
Over 80% of LGBTQ+ youth have been assaulted or threatened, and every instance of victimization in an LGBTQ+ person’s life more than doubles the likelihood of self-harming. Stand up for victims. Don't be a bystander.
Learn about LGBTQ+:
- LGBTQ_MentalHealth_OnePager.pdf (988lifeline.org)
Be an active part of your loved ones’ support systems and check in with them often. If they show any warning signs for suicide, be direct and ask. Tell them it’s OK to talk about suicidal feelings. Listen to their story without offering advice or judgment.
Link them to resources:
- The Trevor Project | For Young LGBTQ Lives
- It Gets Better – The It Gets Better Project exists to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth around the globe.
- imi - guides built for and with LGBTQ+ teens to help you explore your identity and support your mental health.
- Check out your local library - many have groups for adolescents

Free Resources:

Free apps that have been shown to help anxiety and depression are available from IntelliCare. These apps are part of a nationwide research study funded by the National Institutes of Health.

FamilySupport and Education:

Family Education Booklet: Family Education Booklet | Family Acceptance Project ® (sfsu.edu)

Support frombooks and media:

Books for middle schoolers with LGBT+ characters: https://jocolibrary.bibliocommons.com/list/share/74142239/2033334621
Books for YA readers with LGBT+ characters: https://jocolibrary.bibliocommons.com/list/share/1412410137/1913128211
Out In Front: Queer Youth Changing the World is a five-episode docuseries offering a glimpse into the lives of young LGBTQ+ activists doing their part to change their world for the better.(Recommended Age: 14+) https://itgetsbetter.org/blog/lesson/outinfront/