Discrimination often makes it tough for LGBTQIA+ folks to access and receive mental health care. Many healthcare workers might not fully grasp their unique needs, and negative encounters can discourage seeking help.
And the hurdles to getting support continue to grow; in 2023 alone, over 650 anti-LGBTQ+ were introduced. For many LGBTQ+ individuals, that knowledge makes merely existing terrifying; some are even re-closeting themselves out of safety concerns.
Given these challenges, it’s no surprise that studies show LGBTQIA+ individuals experience higher rates of mental health issues. But here's the silver lining: supportive friends, social networks, and professional mental health services can make a big difference for those dealing with minority stress. If that’s you, here’s a list of peer support groups and other resources to check out.
LGBTQ+ Mental Health Peer Support Groups
- [Virtual] The LOFT Gay Center: LGBTQ+ Mental Health Peer Support Group for individuals aged 18+ living with a mental health condition.
- WHEN: The 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
- WHERE: Virtual meeting - please register to access the Zoom link
- CONTACT: Emailinfo@loftgaycenter.org or call The LOFT's Helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13
- [Virtual & In-Person Available] NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers a Connection Support Group specifically for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
- To find one near you, you’ll need to enter your zip code here
- Based on location, there are virtual and in-person options
- [Virtual] The Kiva Centers: "Sharing Safety" peer support group for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing challenges with gender, sexuality, trauma, and more.
- WHEN: Multiple days/times available
- WHERE: Virtual - schedule and zoom links available here
- CONTACT: info@kivacenters.org
- [Virtual] Wildflower Alliance: LGBTQ+ Support Groups for online peer support and community building. Available on Zoom and Discord.
- WHEN: Multiple days/times available
- WHERE: Virtual - schedule and zoom links available here
- CONTACT: info@wildfloweralliance.org
- [Virtual] Southeast Recovery Learning Community: Young Adult LGBTQ+ Support Group for ages 18-28 with mental health and/or substance use challenges.
- WHEN: Thursdays at 6pm EST
- WHERE: Virtual - email for Zoom link
- CONTACT: elizabethkeeling@bamsi.org
- [Virtual] Peer Support Space, Inc: Lotus - Asian LGBTQ+ virtual community gatherings
- WHEN: Wednesdays at 6pm CDT
- WHERE: Virtual - register here
- CONTACT: PSSLotus@gmail.com
- [Virtual & In-Person Available] LGBT Life Center:
- Offers a variety of both in-person and virtual support groups
- more info here.
Other LGBTQ+ Support Groups & Hotlines
- PFLAG: For parents, families, and allies.
- Q Chat Space: for LGBTQIA+ teens. Professionally facilitated. Spanish-speaking group available.
- LGBTQIA+ Peer Support Talk Lines
- LGBT national hotline: 888-843-4564
- LGBT national coming out support hotline: 888-688-5428 (888-OUT-LGBT)
- LGBT national youth talk line (for those 25 & younger): 800-246-7743
- LGBT national senior hotline(for those 50 & above): 888-234-7243
- One-to-one online peer support chat: www.LGBThotline.org/chat
LGBTQ+ Crisis/Suicide Prevention Hotlines
- Trans Lifeline - 877-565-8860
- LGBT National Youth Talkline - 1-800-246-7743
- TrevorLifeline - 1-866-488-7386
- TrevorText - Text START to 678-678
- LGBT National Hotline - 1-888-843-4564
Navigating mental health care can be especially tough for LGBTQIA+ individuals, but you're not alone in this journey. Despite the challenges, there are supportive networks and resources available to help you. Whether through peer support groups, hotlines, or professional services, finding the right support can make a world of difference. Reach out, connect, and remember—you deserve care and understanding.
