June is Pride Month, and we would like to share questions to help illustrate our thoughts and keep an open dialogue about mental health. Here are a few resources and ideas for feedback and interaction.

• How does someone’s identity affect mental health? “Mental Health is a complex intersection between someone’s environment and themselves – how accepted or comfortable they feel in their surroundings to express their authentic selves openly can often influence an individual’s mental health.”

• How can we be respectful of people who identify as LGBTQ+? “The same way that we would be respectful of any other individuals: acknowledgment of who they are as fellow human beings.”

• Practical experience or everyday interaction with people? “It translates into not assuming that someone is heterosexual, not using hetero-normative language, etc. Also, if someone is gender-fluid or trans, we must respect the pronouns they prefer and the given name they use for themselves. a minute to write an introduction that is short, sweet, and to the point.”Dr. Jeph

  It’s always good to check the resources available in your area for LGBTQ+ individuals and youth.

• For example, New York City has The Center (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center), a respected resource since it was founded in 1983.

• Nationally, GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) maintains an LGBTQ+ Resource List,

• SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) maintains a National and Regional resources list for LGBT+ Behavioral Health.