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Why health is so crucial.
Holistic Health
Medical care in the United States is based upon holistic health, an approach that treats the whole person by addressing physical, mental, and emotional well-being together. Rather than focusing solely on individual symptoms, holistic health emphasizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of health for comprehensive care. This is especially crucial for LGBTQ+ youth, who face unique challenges like discrimination and identity struggles, making mental and emotional support just as important as physical health care.
Physical Wellbeing
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Substance
Abuse
Substance abuse can be a serious issue for LGBTQ+ youth, often stemming from the unique challenges of facing discrimination, rejection, or identity struggles. These experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, or depression, making drugs or alcohol seem like a way to cope. However, turning to substances can have long-term negative effects such as addiction, worsening mental health issues, and damage to relationships and physical health. Even "safe" drugs to use such as marijuana and alcohol can have devestating outcomes. To stay away from substance abuse, it's important to build a support system, connect with LGBTQ+-friendly counselors, and find healthy coping strategies like mindfulness, exercise, or creative outlets. If you or someone you know needs help, our hotline page offers immediate support, including links to National Substance Abuse Line for 24/7 crisis intervention.
If you're struggling with an eating disorder, it can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Many LGBTQ+ youth face challenges like body image issues, gender dysphoria, or stress from navigating their identity, and it's important to remember that your body is worthy of love and care, exactly as it is. Reaching out for help from LGBTQ+-affirming counselors, therapists, or support groups is a powerful step toward healing. Recovery is about more than just food—it's about learning to cope with stress in healthy ways, building self-compassion, and embracing your body as part of your unique, beautiful identity. You deserve to love yourself fully and feel strong, healthy, and whole.
Eating Disorders
STDs are a risk for all teens, but LGBTQ+ youth often face added challenges because they're frequently left out of health education conversations. Without accurate and inclusive information, it can be harder to understand how to protect yourself. Regular testing, using protection, and having open conversations with partners are all important ways to reduce your risk. Remember, your sexual health matters, and it's important to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself, even when health education doesn’t always cover the specific risks LGBTQ+ youth may face.
STDs/STIs
HIV/AIDS
HIV has historically been a concern for the LGBTQ+ community, but medical advancements have made it far more preventable and manageable today. Medications like PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) can reduce your risk of contracting HIV by over 90% when taken daily, and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is available if you've been exposed, as long as it’s taken within 72 hours. Regular testing is key, and with early detection, HIV is highly treatable. Thanks to these advancements, protecting yourself is easier than ever, and you have the tools to take control of your health and future.
Mental Health
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Depression & Anxiety
Many LGBTQ+ youth experience anxiety and depression due to the unique challenges of navigating their identities in a world that may not always be accepting. Feelings of isolation, fear of rejection, and the pressure to fit in can contribute to overwhelming emotions, making it hard to cope. It's important to remember that these feelings are valid, but they don’t define you. Reaching out for help can make a big difference—whether it's talking to a friend, counselor, or joining a support group. You don’t have to face this alone. For more support, you can find helpful resources and hotlines on our Hotline (Crisis Outreach) page or on our "Talking to Someone" page listed under the On-Demand Help tab.
LGBTQ+ youth are significantly more likely to experience suicidal thoughts, being nearly four times as likely to attempt suicide compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers. The pain from feeling misunderstood, rejected, or alone can feel overwhelming, but it’s crucial to remember that your life is incredibly valuable. Reaching out for help can save your life—whether it’s to a trusted friend, family member, or a professional. No matter what you’re going through, there are people who care and want to support you. Please don’t hesitate to seek help—you are important, and your life has meaning. For immediate support, visit our Hotline page to find resources that can help right now.
Suicide Ideation
Healthy
Relationships
Building healthy relationships is essential for your well-being, whether they are romantic, friendships, or family connections. A healthy relationship is based on mutual respect, open communication, and understanding each other's boundaries. It’s important to recognize that sexual or physical abuse, where someone hurts or manipulates you, is never acceptable and should not be tolerated. In any relationship, you should feel safe, supported, and valued for who you are, especially as an LGBTQ+ individual. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re being disrespected, it’s okay to set boundaries or seek help. Remember, healthy relationships empower you to be your true self, and you deserve nothing less.
Bullying can be especially tough for LGBTQ+ youth, whether it’s at school, online, or even in your own community. It’s important to remember that no one has the right to make you feel unsafe or less than for who you are. If you’re facing bullying, try to seek support from trusted friends, family, or a counselor who can stand by you. Don’t hesitate to report the bullying to a teacher or authority figure—your safety comes first. Most importantly, know that the hurtful words or actions of others don’t define you. Surround yourself with people who respect and uplift you because you deserve to be treated with kindness and dignity.
Bullying Advice
Stress With Coming Out
Coming out can be one of the most stressful experiences for LGBTQ+ youth. The fear of rejection, discrimination, or even losing loved ones often creates intense anxiety beforehand. After coming out, you might still face challenges, like navigating new dynamics in relationships, dealing with judgment, or feeling misunderstood. For many, coming out isn’t a one-time event—it’s something that has to happen repeatedly in different situations, which can be exhausting and emotionally draining. It’s important to go at your own pace and seek support from people who accept and love you for who you are. Remember, your identity is valid whether you come out to everyone or just a few people. If you need help or resources, visit our Hotline page for support such as from the 24/7 Trevor Project Hotline.