Pride Month: A Time to Reflect on Progress Made in Mental Wellness

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning, with the “+” representing additional identities that fall under the broader
umbrella of sexual orientations and gender identities) community and the advances we have made in terms of mental wellness.

Mental health is an important issue in the LGBTQ+ community, with rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide significantly higher than for the population at large. Much of this can be attributed to discrimination and stigma, both overt and subtle. Fortunately, many organizations are beginning to recognize the importance of mental health and the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals face.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has taken a major step towards improving mental wellness in the LGBTQ+ community. Their recent initiative, NAMI Pride, provides resources and support to LGBTQ+ individuals with mental illness, including a 24/7 helpline, information booklets, and online support groups.

The LGBTQ+ community has come a long way in terms of mental wellness and it’s important to continue the conversation and to take care of one another. To accomplish this, there needs to be greater access to mental health professionals who specialize in LGBTQ+ mental health, as well as learning campaigns that promote inclusive mental health practices. Organizations such as The SAGE Project, a division of NAMI, have done a great job creating resources and training specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.

If you would like to speak with one of our therapists here at CAV Family therapy, click on the
website to learn more about the communities that they serve.
Happy Pride Month!

De Angela Jane Smith, MA, AMFT #116034
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Doctoral Candidate
If you would like to schedule a free 15-minute consultation, please email me at:
DSmith@CAVFamilyTherapy.com
(657) 333 – 5218
CAV Family Therapy Inc.