RALEIGH, N.C. — As June approaches, so does Pride Month, a time to celebrate, advocate and reflect on LGBTQ+ rights across the state and around the world. The annual commemoration honors people who identify as LGBTQ+, community members, advocates and allies.
Amid the rainbow-hued celebration lie reminders of the struggles the LGBTQ+ community faces, particularly when it comes to mental health.
Jami Dumler, a licensed clinical social worker and regional director for Thriveworks, said she chose to specialize in LGBTQ+ issues after learning about the discrimination and trauma often experienced by marginalized communities.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 41% of LGBTQ+ youth have seriously considered suicide, and 56% of LGBTQ+ youth who seek mental health care don’t receive it.
She said there are several complex factors that exacerbate mental health issues in the LGBTQ+ community, including the combined impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, a proliferation of legislation regarding the LGBTQ+ community, and widespread discrimination.
Dumler said despite these obstacles, times like Pride Month can help chart paths to support and resilience.
“Pride Month has several important components, one of which is to increase overall awareness, representation and advocacy in both national and local communities to increase support, knowledge and action towards positive change,” Dumler explained.
Dumler recommended several organizations that offer a variety of assistance to those in need.
“There are some great organizations out there,” Dumler said, “like The Trevor Project. They have resources for information, outreach, and even a crisis support line.”
“PFLAG also has local and national chapters that provide support groups for LGBTQ+ people and their family and friends who want to learn more and better support them,” Dumler says. “And finally, we have WPATH, which is dedicated to transgender health and can offer a great provider network of trusted, approved resources for a range of health and mental health care information.”
Ultimately, Dumler says, Pride Month is more than just a celebration; it’s a testament to resilience, an affirmation of identity, and a call for a future where mental health disparities are eradicated and every individual can find comfort, acceptance, and a sense of belonging.
