For those looking to learn how to help LGBTQ+ friends and family,  it’s important to know that this can also means supporting their mental health.

About 4.3% of adults in Jacksonville and the immediate surrounding counties identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. That’s the highest percentage of adults per metro population in all of Florida.

June is Pride Month- a time that many people and organizations publicly display their support for the LGBTQ+ community. That show of support is so important, to empower this community to embrace and live their true selves.

But unfortunately, many LGBTQ+ individuals struggle with their identity and mental health. There are steps you can take to be an ally and provide support.

LGBTQ+ Individuals and Mental Health

The National Alliance on Mental Illness says there is strong evidence that this community is at a higher risk of mental health challenges, especially depression and anxiety disorders. This can be driven by many factors, including a fear of rejection, past trauma and discrimination, and inadequate healthcare/mental health care.

There is also a high co-occurrence of challenges that can tax mental health. The Jacksonville-Area Community Assessment Report says about a quarter of survey respondents reported being “poor” or “near poor”, based on the federal poverty level. One in five respondents reported food insecurity in the prior year. Homelessness is another documented challenge.

Identity conflict can add even further to the strain. The Reports says 43% of survey respondents said their religion was somewhat or very important to them, yet about 20% of respondents said their religion has an unfavorable view of homosexuality.

And these challenges are often seen at higher rates among gender minorities.

Recent years have shown a trend toward more inclusive policies and protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, in Northeast Florida. This includes protections passed by the City of Jacksonville and several beach communities.

While the majority of Report survey respondents reported being “out” to friends and/or family, 27% had not told their boss, 22% had not come out to their faith community, and 21% did not disclose to their healthcare providers. Even though LGBTQ+ individuals may have a higher likelihood of mental health challenges, a survey through Mental Health America found they were less likely than non-LGBTQ+ individuals to seek help.

Getting LGBTQ+ Help and Providing Support

If you are LGBTQ+ and struggling with your mental health, help is available. Jax Therapy Network allows you to search for a locally licensed mental health professional who specializes in gender identity, issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, and related areas.

NAMI outlines some good considerations for choosing a mental health professional, including thinking about whether you want a provider who shares your identity. In Jacksonville, there are several great organizations that support LGBTQ+ individuals, including providing referrals to inclusive community resources.

Anyone can support the LGBTQ+ community by being an ally in your place of work, worship, and more. Look for opportunities to spread awareness of community resources, streamline access to support, improve policies, and create an overall welcoming environment. You can also directly support resources like food banks that help people who are LGBTQ+, in order to address some of the co-occurrences that can challenge mental health.

LGBTQ+ Pride Month Local Events

For Pride Month specifically, there are several local Pride Month events where you can celebrate the local LGBTQ+ community.

Importantly, make sure you also take the time to get to know someone individually, including that person’s preferred pronouns. While the LGBTQ+ community is often grouped together, there are so many unique identities that fall under that umbrella. A person may also have other important influences on their identity, like their race, ethnicity, culture, family, and other areas. Make sure you get to know the person you’re interacting with, in order to support them and their specific needs.


Ready to find your therapist? Search the Jax Therapy Network and find help with LGBTQ+ mental health issues by professional therapists and counseling support.