Supporting a LGBTQIA+ young person “Youth MHFAiders should understand that young LGBTQ+ people are dealing with compounded factors that add risks to their mental health, like the lack of a support network. A great way to help would be to signpost them to healthy communities to support them to be their authentic selves.” Anonymous If you are supporting a LGBTQIA+ young person, understanding their experience and using appropriate language will be important for building trust and openness. Learn as much as you can about the LGBTQIA+ community, including the way culture and religion impact people. An example would be internalised pressures as a result of external forces, which can result in feelings of shame. Remember to support the young person as a whole person with many different identities – try not to focus only on their LGBTQIA+ experience. Unless it is relevant to assisting the young person, do not ask the young person about their sexuality or gender identity. Be aware that the young person has been marginalised and may express anger and hostility – try not to take this personally. While giving support, remember the concept of intersectionality. It’s important to consider how other areas of their identity may impact the levels of discrimination they have faced. Other areas of their identity may also impact the way they feel about themselves, their gender, and/or their sexuality. Understand diverse LGBTQIA+ experiences Sexuality and gender lie on a spectrum rather than falling within rigid categories. Sexuality and gender may change over time and a young person may have a range of identities.
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