Let’s Lead with Love
Pride continues a legacy that is deeply intertwined with the rich, progressive history of the LGBT+ community. From a small gathering of dedicated activists fighting for the right to love and be seen, to clashes with the government and police, to the vibrant celebration known today, it has been a long time in the making. We should be thankful for all the hard work and sacrifices made by those that came before us. Rights weren’t painlessly given; they were fought for and that should never be diminished. We have made great strides. I just believe we would err if we did not mention there is still work to be done…
I’ve always applauded the idea of protecting and empowering youth. To where it should be an automatic response, shouldn’t it? Is it just naivete on my part? Because the youth, are they not the future?
There are studies now available that tell a different story, unfortunately. LGBTQ youth and trans people face increased risk over their heterosexual peers. LGBTQ youth face approximately 14 times the risk of suicide and substance abuse. 77% of trans respondents in an Ontario-based survey had seriously considered suicide and 45% had attempted suicide. It was found that trans youth, and those who had experienced physical or sexual assault, to be at greatest risk. And female same-sex couples and bisexual individuals were more likely to be low income.
Further reasons that may impact mental health and well-being for LGBTQ youth, include the process of coming out (sharing one’s identity with others), isolation and alienation, loss of family or social support.
Surely, there are things we can do to be there for them to foster positive mental health? What about having supportive family units? And advocating for more supportive workplaces, schools, and community centres? What if we encourage them to connect with LGBTQ communities?
It would be perfect if all these things happened, if every adult and parent was a place of safety and acceptance, but we all know this is unfortunately not yet the case. Studies suggest that Canadian LGBTQ+ youth are over-represented in poverty statistics, with between 25 and 40 percent of homeless youth identifying as LGBTQ+ and this is because of rejection from family members during the coming out process. Barriers in housing and education also prevent LGBTQ+ youth from accessing services and support. Services with a one-stop approach to poverty can also contribute to LGBTQ+ members falling through cracks in services.
June is coming upon us fast, which also makes it Pride month. This also means school is ending and because of this, for some, support will be lost. Where can they turn when they need to talk this summer?
There are websites like: Www.youthline.ca, it is a Youth Line that offers confidential and non-judgemental peer support through their telephone, text, and chat services. Peer support is available from Sunday to Friday, 4:00PM to 9:30 PM. They are based in Toronto. This LGBT Youth Line is a *2SLGBTQ+ youth-led organization that backs up and supports the experiences of youth (29 and under) across Ontario. I think they do great work; I think they are worthy of support so they can keep on helping these kids. I made a small donation today; I encourage others to follow suit if they are able and want to help. Every dollar helps. Because having someone to talk to, and care, is what kids need.
I’m a big believer in trying my best to help those that don’t have the means to help themselves. No youth should have to experience what it is like to not be accepted. Being an ally will always be free. It is time now to lead with love and understanding of all kids because it is something they should never have to go without.
Here are more resources for those that may be interested:
Collaboration of non-profit distress, crisis, and suicide prevention service centres from across Canada.
Call: 1-833-456-4566
Text: 45645 (4PM -12AM ET)
A National support service offering counselling, information and referrals.
Call: 1-800-668-6868 (French/English/Arabic)
Text: 686868
A peer support line run by and for trans people, focused on providing community, support, and resources.
Call: 877-330-6366 (5PM – 1AM ET)
Pflag Canada is a national charitable organization, founded by parents who wished to help themselves and their family members understand and accept their LGBTQ2S children
Email: info@pflagcanada.ca
Call: 1-888-530-6777
Egale works to improve and save lives through research, education, awareness, and by advocating for human rights and equality in Canada and around the world.
The LifeLine Canada Foundation (also known as TLC) is a registered non-profit, committed to positive mental health and suicide prevention across Canada and Worldwide. TLC is not a crisis hotline.
Salaam Canada is a volunteer-run national organization dedicated to creating space for people who identify as both Muslim and queer and trans.
JusticeTrans is designed to provide Two Spirit, trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming communities in Canada with relevant and up-to-date legal information.
Project Youth AFFIRM is an eight session, manualized intervention. It is focused on reducing depression and improving coping and sexual self-efficacy for LGBTTQQ2SA* youth and adults.
Drugwatch is an important resource for empowering the LGBTQ+ community geared towards the unique health challenges that the community faces, which is one the heterosexual community does not. This website offers support and education in the way of resources that provide information on both prevention and treatment of various health conditions.
Call: (888) 645-1617
This resource offers tips on how to find safe and inclusive care. Educated on the unique mental health risks and needs of LGBTQ+ people. Explains specific health concerns for both cisgender and transgender people in the LGBTQ+ community.
This is a resource for people who are looking to take the next step and learn more about recovery. Their aim is to ensure health and wellness within the community. This website provides reliable information about both mental health and substance use recovery.
This is a resource that focuses on LGBTQ+ individuals ensuring their safety both offline and online.
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