Trigger Warning: This page contains information about mental health struggles, including topics such as depression, anxiety, and self-harm. Please take care of yourself and only continue if you feel comfortable. If you need immediate support, resources are available on Crisis Resources.

Recognizing signs of mental health struggles early can be life-saving. For LGBTQ+ youth, these challenges are often compounded by stigma, discrimination, and lack of understanding, making it harder to reach out for help. This toolkit outlines key signs of mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. By learning to identify these signs, you can help provide the support that someone might desperately need.

Signs of Mental Health Struggles

What Are Mental Health Struggles?

Mental health struggles affect thoughts, feelings, and behavior, ranging from mild to severe. For LGBTQ+ youth, factors like societal rejection or internalized homophobia can worsen these conditions, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and other challenges.

Signs & Symptoms of Common Mental Health Struggles

  • Persistent thoughts of death or dying

    Giving away prized possessions or making final arrangements

    Sudden mood changes from despair to calmness

    Withdrawing from family, friends, and regular activities

  • Preoccupation with weight, food, or body image

    Extreme dieting or binge eating

    Obsessive behaviors like excessive exercise

    Secretive behavior around food

  • Ongoing sadness or hopelessness

    Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed

    Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

    Significant changes in appetite or sleep

  • Excessive worry or fear

    Difficulty relaxing or resting

    Physical symptoms like dizziness, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath

    Avoidance of situations or places due to anxiety

  • Engaging in behaviors like cutting, burning, or scratching

    Wearing long sleeves or pants to cover wounds

    Emotional numbness or extreme sadness

    Expressing feelings of worthlessness or self-hate

How Mental Health Struggles Impact LGBTQ+ Youth

Rejection
Many LGBTQ+ youth face rejection from family, friends, or peers, which can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and low self-worth.

Stigma
Discrimination or bullying due to their gender or sexual identity can worsen mental health struggles, leading to anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

Lack of Affirming Support
Inadequate mental health support that doesn’t understand or affirm LGBTQ+ experiences can lead to a delay in treatment and worsen conditions.

Listen Without Judgment: Approach them with empathy and patience. Let them share their thoughts and feelings without offering immediate solutions or advice.

Encourage Professional Support: Gently encourage them to seek help from a licensed therapist or counselor who is LGBTQ+-affirming.

Create a Safe Space: Offer emotional support and create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing and expressing themselves.

Stay Connected: Regular check-ins show them they are not alone. Offer consistent support and be a steady presence.

Take Action: Become a certified Mental Health First Aider for Youth. Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges.

Supporting Queer Youth Through Mental Health Struggles

Taking Care of Yourself

Supporting others can be emotionally draining, so it's important to prioritize your own well-being:

  • Seek support through therapy or peer groups.

  • Practice self-care to manage stress and recharge.

  • Set boundaries and know when to seek professional help for yourself and others.

Rooted in Pride, We Bloom.

Rooted in Pride, We Bloom.

Toolkit/Downloadable Resources

  • Download our "Mental Health Self-Care Checklist" to guide you through daily steps to stay grounded and balanced.

  • LGBTQ+ Mental Health Crisis Plan (PDF) – A practical guide for creating your own mental health plan, including emergency contacts, coping strategies, and self-care tips.