The Critical Demand for LGBTQIA+ Allyship in Mental Health Care
Written By: Leslie Wells
Despite growing awareness, LGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face significant barriers in accessing affirming mental health care in 2025. These obstacles contribute to alarming disparities in mental health outcomes, particularly among youth. At Hope & Healing, we recognize the critical role that allyship plays in dismantling these barriers and fostering inclusive, supportive environments.
Recent data from The Trevor Project's 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People reveal:
39% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year; this includes 46% of transgender and nonbinary youth.
12% of LGBTQ+ youth attempted suicide in the past year.
50% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care were unable to access it.
66% of LGBTQ+ youth reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety, and 53% reported symptoms of depression.
90% of LGBTQ+ youth said their well-being was negatively impacted by recent politics.
These statistics underscore the urgent need for accessible, affirming mental health resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Supportive environments significantly reduce the risk of suicide among LGBTQ+ youth:
Transgender and nonbinary youth with access to gender-affirming spaces reported lower rates of suicide attempts.
LGBTQ+ youth living in very accepting communities attempted suicide at less than half the rate of those in unaccepting communities.
Respecting pronouns and providing access to gender-neutral bathrooms are associated with improved mental health outcomes.
To support LGBTQIA+ individuals in accessing affirming mental health care, consider the following resources:
PFLAG Southern Maryland: Offers support, resources, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
The Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth.
Lighthouse: Connects LGBTQIA+ individuals with affirming healthcare providers.
National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center: Offers educational resources for healthcare providers to improve care for LGBTQIA+ patients.
Allyship involves active support and advocacy:
Educate Yourself: Learn about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Speak Up: Challenge discriminatory language and behaviors.
Support Affirming Policies: Advocate for inclusive policies in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings.
Listen and Validate: Offer a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals to share their experiences.
By taking these steps, we can work together to create a more inclusive and supportive society for all.
At Hope & Healing, we believe that everyone deserves access to affirming mental health care. Please share the resources included in this month’s blog post freely and often— together, all of us can make a difference.