Supporting LGBTQ+ Kids’ Mental Health

June is Pride Month, and while we’re celebrating our LGBTQ+ kids, we also want to support their mental health and safety. If you have an LGBTQ+ child, you are probably aware of the elevated risks of anxiety and depression that these kids face. But you should also know that there are effective ways to minimize these risks and help ensure that LGBTQ+ kids grow up safe, confident, and happy.

This week on childmind.org we look at the key mental health risks and protective factors at play for LGBTQ+ kids. While unconditional support from family is an important protective factor, any understanding, trustworthy adult can make a huge difference in an LGBTQ+ child’s life. We also look at ways to support trans kids and those who are questioning their gender identity or sexual orientation. The more we know about what helps — and hurts — LGBTQ+ young people, the better we can advocate for their needs and show up for them when it counts.