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LGBTQIA+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or sometimes questioning), intersex, asexual, and others. The “plus” represents other sexual identities, including pansexual. The acronym is used to represent a diverse range of sexualities and gender-identities, referring to anyone who is transgender and/or same/similar gender attracted. This is often shortened to LGBT+.
There are things the LGBT+ community face that can sometimes make life feel overwhelming or unmanageable. Feelings of shame can be a big factor that impacts on mental health and well being. There are also numerous things that can make reaching out for help difficult, such as complex relationships with family or with healthcare professionals. External pressures can also lead to internalised homophobia and feelings sometimes known as ‘minority stress’. ‘Minority stress’ is the result of someone experiencing stress based on their ethnicity, race, sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
If you are being bullied or want to talk to someone about how you are feeling, speak to a trusted adult within your school about this.
There are now lots of easily accessible resources for LBGT+ people to support and promote positive mental health. Sometimes the relief for many could be coming out and being able to identify as their true self, others may find coming out to be a difficult experience. (LGBT Youth Scotland, 2023).
Mind has information about how someone’s identity and experiences identifying as LGBT+ can impact on their mental health and wellbeing: LGBTQIA+ experiences – Mind
