Learning About LGBTQ+ Support

How can you find support?

Having a strong support network can help people live longer, more satisfying lives. Connecting with other LGBTQ+ people can provide a level of support and acceptance that can make you feel more connected and empowered. Plus, it can be fun.

Here are some ways you might find support.

• Try sports or activity clubs organized for LGBTQ+ people.

  If you want to get more active or you're not comfortable in a gym, think about joining a sport or activity club. Or you might look for a workout buddy.

• Join a support group.

  Local LGBTQ+ community centers, your library, or meet-up groups (www.meetup.com) may have offerings. Friends may also recommend groups. If you can't find an existing group, maybe you can start one. You may also want to check out the websites www.glaad.org and www.pflag.org to get more connected to people, events, or groups.

• Visit places of worship that are LGBTQ+ friendly.

  If you want spiritual support, do some research about churches or spiritual centers that are LGBTQ+ friendly. You don't have to give up this part of your life if it's important to you.

• Find groups specific to LGBTQ+ people for quitting smoking, alcohol, or drugs.

  If you want to stop smoking and need help quitting, find a support group that's friendly to the LGBTQ+ community. Or talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good. If you're worried about substance use, you may want to check out Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or a Smart Recovery program.

• Get professional counseling.

  The websites www.samhsa.gov and www.glma.org can be great resources to find mental health services. Counseling can work for anyone. But it can really help if:

  • You have trouble loving or accepting yourself.
  • Your stress or anxiety level feels like too much.
  • You're having relationship or sexual issues.
  • You feel isolated and alone.
  • You feel depressed or have thoughts of hurting yourself.
  • You're being discriminated against or bullied.
  • You're being emotionally, verbally, or physically abused. You can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at www.ndvh.org or 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233). It's a free hotline that's available 24 hours every day in English and other languages.

If you're not sure about reaching out in one of these ways, remember that lots of people have felt the same way. Sometimes, taking the first step is the hardest part.