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While belonging to the LGBTQ+ community can be a source of strength, it also brings unique challenges. For those who identify as LGBTQ+, it’s important to recognize how your experience of sexual orientation and gender identity relates to your mental health.

LGBTQIA+ Mental Health & Resilience

The LGBTQ+ community represents a diverse intersection of identities, race, and socioeconomic backgrounds. While this intersectionality fosters pride and resiliency, it also faces unique systemic challenges that impact mental wellness.

• LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely to experience mental health conditions compared to heterosexual adults.

• Transgender individuals are nearly 4x more likely to experience mental health conditions than cisgender peers.

• 40% of transgender adults who have attempted suicide in their lifetime.

Find Local LGBTQIA+ Specific Support

Seeking safe, vetted resources? The List is a Chicagoland-based collection of resources for Trans and Gender Nonconforming folx and those who support them. Access the comprehensive resource list for support, advocacy, and community.

Explore “The List” for Us

Critical Risk Factors

Rejection & Trauma

40% of LGBTQ+ adults have experienced rejection from family or friends. Harassment and identity-based shame contribute to a significantly heightened risk for PTSD.

Housing & Homelessness

LGBTQ+ youth face a 120% higher risk of experiencing homelessness, often due to family rejection or discrimination in traditional shelter systems.

Substance Use

Misuse is often a coping mechanism for discrimination. LGBTQ+ adults are nearly 2x as likely to experience a substance use disorder.

Finding the Right Provider

It is important to seek LGBTQ+-competent care. When interviewing a potential mental health professional, consider asking:

• “What experience do you have working with my specific identity?”

• “Do you have specific training or certifications for LGBTQ+ clients?”

• “What is your position on the discredited practice of conversion therapy?”

Note: You should not feel like you need to educate your provider on basic LGBTQ+ concepts.

National Resource Directory

The Trevor Project	24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth. Text “START” to 678-678
The LGBTQ+ National Help Center	Offers confidential peer support connections for LGBTQ+ youth, adults and seniors, including phone, text and online chat.
Trans Lifeline	Peer support hotline run by trans people, for trans people. 877-565-8860
SAGE	Advocacy and services for LGBTQ+ elders.
LGBTQ+ Healthcare Directory	A search tool to locate inclusive health care providers.