The LGBTQIA+ community faces a variety of mental health issues. This exhibition will present information on these issues along with resources for LGBTQIA youth dealing with these problems, as well as information on how allies can advocate for and support the LGBTQIA community to provide awareness on and to better mental health.

LGBTQIA+ youth are at a higher risk for mental health disorders due to the numerous challenges they face, such as “bullying, [difficulties] coming out…, hate crimes, lack of support, … stigma, and discrimination” (ADAA). These adversities create minority stress and can lead to mental health issues including anxiety, PTSD, depression, and even suicide.

For more information please visit the Anxiety, & Depression Association of America (ADAA): LGBTQ+.

Creating Understanding and Support

These mental health issues can be combated by giving our LGBTQIA+ friends the support they need to achieve a mentally healthy life. This exhibition hopes to give a better understanding of mental health issues that are faced by the LGBTQIA+ Community.

A Few Statistics

• LGBTQ youth who have a community-affirming space they can visit in person are 8% less likely to attempt suicide.
• LGBTQ youth who have the support of their families are 9% less likely to attempt suicide.
• Over 80% of LGBTQ youth feel more secure in themselves when they see celebrities or others in the media who are part of the LGBTQIA+ Community.
• More than 50% of LGBTQ Youth have a positive impact from seeing brands support the LGBTQIA+ Community.

For more information please visit The Trevor Project: National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health 2020.

 

Special thanks to LGBTQ+ artist Colin W. Miller for allowing us to feature his art in our exhibit. Miller’s introspective watercolor ghost series and their titles inspirit thoughts on the themes of anxiety, depression, and suicide, complementing this exhibit.

If you would like to see more of Colin’s art, check out his Instagram, @colinwmillerart, and his website.