Every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued. Small acts of acceptance can build belonging, and belonging is foundational to well-being. This is true for all children but, as described in a new fact sheet from the Office of Children’s Mental Health (OCMH), it’s especially powerful for LGBTQ youth who often face discrimination and harassment.

“Ensuring LGBTQ youth feel supported doesn’t require a lot of funding or special training. Just like all kids, they need connection and acceptance,” said OCMH Director Linda Hall. “All young people deserve to thrive. If you’re a teacher, coach, relative, or neighbor to a LGBTQ young person, you have the power to impact that child’s life. Supportive people and places truly help save lives.” 

Data show LGBTQ youth often face discrimination, bullying, violence, stigma, and unsupportive environments – sometimes even family rejection – which can lead to mental health struggles. But supportive relationships and affirming environments make a real difference in reducing the negative impacts of discrimination. LGBTQ kids who have just one supportive adult in their lives are 40% less likely to attempt suicide.

Because there are measurable improvements when LGBTQ youth feel supported, the fact sheet includes actions and recommendations that support LGBTQ youth mental health. Connection, acceptance, and belonging are emphasized.

“From sharing helplines like 988’s Press 3 option to anti-bullying programs in schools and positive, welcoming spaces in the community, there’s a role for everybody. We can all help keep LGBTQ kids out of crisis. You can make a meaningful difference,” said Hall.

One Wisconsin couple did just that, seeing an unmet need for safe, affirming LGBTQ+ care for children when they became foster parents in 2014. They saw firsthand kids being rejected by their own families – as well as homeless shelters – because of their LGBTQ+ identity. Family rejection puts LGBTQ youth at risk of mental health problems, homelessness, and substance use. The couple behind Courage+ decided to take action. Read about their inspiring and supportive work in the most recent OCMH Showcasing Solutions, Courage+ Serves LGBTQ+ Youth.

See the full OCMH Fact Sheet: Supporting LGBTQ Youth Mental Health.

See all OCMH Fact Sheets.

See all OCMH Showcasing Solutions.