Supporting LGBTQIA+ Youth: Mental Health Considerations
Parents want what is best for their children and being the support for youth who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community is essential to their self-confidence and acceptance of their authentic selves as they grow into young adults. Youth have limited ability to rationally or logically identify strategies to reduce stress while also controlling their emotional reactivity. This means that our youth are dependent on adults, specifically their parents, to support them and assist them in this stage of life.
In what ways can parents better support their LGBTQIA+ children in light of earlier self-identification?
In recent years, more widespread access to information about sexual orientation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ resources through the internet has aided and changed how adolescents and youth learn about LGBTQIA+ people as well as their lives. The increase in access to information has helped the youth of today identify who they are and express their identity at much earlier ages than in previous generations.
The increase in understanding about how family support as well as the earlier ages of youth expressing their identity has resulted in the need to shift how we support the parents as well as the LGBTQIA+ youth.
The Importance of Acceptance for LGBTQIA+ Youth
Studies show that youth who have at least one accepting adult in their life have significantly reduced incidents of depression, suicidal behavior, and substance abuse. Youth who experience family rejection are 8.4 times more likely to attempt suicide, 6 times more likely to suffer from depression, and 3 times more likely to use illegal substances. These numbers are staggering, so how do we support our children and the youth who are LGBTQIA+?
It sounds cliche but knowledge is power and having an understanding and willingness to learn is important. Take the time to learn the terms and understand what sexual orientation means because having some basic knowledge will allow for more open communication.
It is important to lead from a place of love and when you don’t know what to say or how to say it, showing support through a hug can be beneficial. It can be difficult for youth to invite their parents in and share their sexual orientation or gender identity, so coming from a place of love can provide the connection needed.
The next important aspect is to listen. There is a need to utilize active listening skills, so asking questions, acknowledging their answers and rephrasing what was said to make sure you are fully understanding what they are sharing.
Why is it important to show support when someone comes out?
Show support, even if it is subtle. Your LGBTQIA+ youth in your life is coming to you and sharing an important aspect of who they are. They are inviting you into their life. The common term is coming out, but really it is more them allowing you to be a part of who they are, they are inviting you to know more about them and sharing an important part of who they are with you out of a place of trust. They are removing a mask and saying they trust you with this part of them, they want you to know and they want your support.
If you or your adolescents are navigating this area and considering seeking out mental health services, please check out our providers.
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