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International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia: The Power of Community

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), celebrated annually on May 17th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the discrimination that LGBTQ+ individuals face. It also allows everyone to promote a world of inclusion, respect, and love. This day commemorates the decision by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 17th, 1990, to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. 

At Western Youth Services (WYS), we believe that community support can be a powerful force for change. IDAHOBIT is not only about acknowledging the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people, it’s about creating safe spaces where every single person has the chance to thrive, free from fear and prejudice. 

The Importance of Visibility and Advocacy in Creating Safe Spaces

It’s plain and simple; visibility matters. When young people see others like them in positive, affirming spaces, they feel seen, validated, and more importantly less isolated. For LGBTQ+ youth, seeing positive representation in media, schools, or within their communities, can bring a sense of belonging that is so crucial for their overall well-being. Advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, policies, and inclusive practices starts with awareness. Once we become more educated, we can inspire change that spreads beyond one individual, leading to more impactful societal changes.

The more visible we are in our support for LGBTQ+ youth, the more we can challenge discriminatory beliefs and behaviors. By standing up and speaking out against homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia, we show that this prejudice will not be tolerated and that inclusion is the only option. 

The Mental Health Impact of Discrimination

In general, discrimination, prejudice, or intolerance has significant negative impacts on mental health. Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity can have even more profound and lasting effects on youth mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, individuals who experience discrimination are at a higher risk for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal ideation. These effects are especially pronounced in LGBTQ+ youth, who often face challenges like rejection, bullying, and lack of support from their families or peers.

A study by the Trevor Project found that LGBTQ youth who are not accepted by their families are more than 8 times as likely to attempt suicide. This statistic exemplifies the dire need of family and community support in promoting an individual’s mental wellness. When LGBTQ+ youth are validated in their identity, their mental health improves greatly. This very reason is why fighting for LGBTQ+ inclusion is not just a moral responsibility, but it’s a mental health necessity.

Ways to Support LGBTQ+ Individuals and Promote Inclusion

There are many different steps we can all take to support LGBTQ+ youth and promote LGBTQ inclusion throughout our communities. Here are some practical ways to make a difference:

  1. Create Accepting Spaces – Schools, workplaces, and communities must be spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard. Encouraging implementing inclusive policies and practices, such as using correct names and pronouns, can go a long way in making LGBTQ+ youth feel safer and more supported.
  2. Promote Open Conversations – Openly talking about LGBTQ+ issues helps reduce the stigma and normalizes conversations around both gender and sexual diversity. Support groups and peer-led discussions can be very valuable in helping youth express themselves and feel understood. At WYS, we provide group therapy and workshops that build these types of conversations in a safe and welcoming environment.
  3. Provide LGBTQ Mental Health Resources – Ensuring that LGBTQ+ youth have access to tailored mental health resources is essential. Equity-centered therapy can help address issues like depression, anxiety, and identity struggles. WYS offers no-cost mental health services for LGBTQ+ youth in Orange County, focusing on trauma-informed, inclusive care.
  4. Be an Advocate – Amplify underrepresented voices. Standing up against discrimination is an important way to show your support for LGBTQ+ youth. Every single act of advocacy can make a life-changing difference. You can be an advocate by showing support for LGBTQ+ rights legislation, challenging harmful stereotypes, or by being an ally in your daily interactions. Tools and resources from organizations like The Trevor Project and GLAAD can help you with these efforts.
  5. Educate Yourself and Others – One of the best ways to support LGBTQ+ youth is to educate yourself on their needs and experiences. Take the time to learn about LGBTQ+ youth mental health challenges, and share this knowledge with others. Workshops, such as the ones offered by WYS through our Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program, can equip educators, parents, and community leaders with the tools they need to better support LGBTQ+ youth.

LGBTQ Resources for Youth

Here are some trusted resources specifically for LGBTQ+ youth and those who stand by them:

  • The Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth. Visit The Trevor Project for 24/7 support and resources.
  • GLAAD: Offers information and advocacy on LGBTQ+ inclusion in media and beyond. Learn more at GLAAD.
  • PFLAG: A support, education, and advocacy organization for LGBTQ+ people and their families. Visit PFLAG.
  • Human Rights Campaign (HRC): Works to advance the LGBTQ+ community’s civil rights and well-being. Find resources at HRC.
  • LGBTQ+ National Help Center: A peer support network for LGBTQ+ individuals. Visit the LGBTQ+ National Help Center for more information.

How Western Youth Services Can Help

At WYS, we are committed to providing inclusive, compassionate care for all youth. We offer an array of services designed to support LGBTQ+ youth and their families, including:

  • LGBTQ Mental Health Resources: We provide no-cost mental health services for youth, including counseling for those struggling with anxiety, depression, and the effects of discrimination.
  • Trauma-Informed Care: Our clinicians deliver inclusive care that respects and affirms each young person’s identity or situation.
  • School-Based Programs: We work directly with schools to implement universal policies and practices, ensuring that LGBTQ+ youth have access to the support they need on campus.
  • Parent and Caregiver Support: We offer workshops to help parents and caregivers understand how to support their LGBTQ+ children with both love and acceptance.

To learn more about how WYS can support LGBTQ+ youth, visit our Programs & Services page.

On International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, we recognize the power of community to build a more welcoming, respectful, and loving world. By standing up for LGBTQ+ rights, creating safe spaces, and sharing useful mental health resources, we can truly help LGBTQ+ youth feel seen and supported.

Stand up to discrimination and help build a future that embraces everyone for who they are.

If you or a young person you know needs support, WYS is here to help. Visit us today to learn more about our services. 

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