®LGBTQ+ Resources
LGBTQ+ Youth
LGBTQ+ young people face disproportionate mental health challenges — not because of who they are, but because of the world they're navigating. This page is for youth, parents, and anyone who cares about them.
In crisis? Call or text the Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 · Available 24/7
40%
of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year
— Trevor Project, 2023
45%
reported feeling unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation
— GLSEN, 2021
120%
lower odds of suicide attempt for youth with at least one accepting adult
— Trevor Project, 2022
3×
less likely to attempt suicide when their pronouns are respected at home
— Trevor Project, 2020
These statistics reflect the impact of external stressors — not anything inherent to LGBTQ+ identity. Affirming environments dramatically improve outcomes.
Mental health topics for LGBTQ+ youth
These are the most common areas where LGBTQ+ young people seek support. Each one is real, each one is treatable, and none of them are your fault.
Identity exploration
Figuring out your sexual orientation or gender identity is a process, not an event. Therapy can be a space to explore without pressure to arrive at a label.
Minority stress
LGBTQ+ youth carry a chronic stress load from navigating a world that isn't always safe or affirming. This is real, it has health consequences, and it's not your fault.
Family rejection
Family rejection is one of the strongest predictors of negative mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth. If you're experiencing it, you deserve support — not just survival.
School-based harassment
Bullying and harassment at school affect academic performance, mental health, and long-term wellbeing. You have rights, and you deserve to feel safe.
Depression & anxiety
LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of depression and anxiety than their peers — largely because of external stressors, not because of their identity. Affirming therapy addresses both.
Self-harm & suicidality
If you're having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out. The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) is available 24/7. You are not alone, and this can get better.
School safety
School is where many LGBTQ+ youth spend most of their time — and where many experience the most harm. Here's what you should know.
Know your rights
Title IX protects students from sex-based discrimination, which courts have increasingly interpreted to include gender identity and sexual orientation. Many states have additional protections. GLSEN's legal resources can help you understand what applies in your state.
GSAs (Gender & Sexuality Alliances)
If your school has a GSA, it can be a meaningful source of community and support. If it doesn't, students have the legal right to form one under the Equal Access Act — GLSEN has a guide for starting one.
Document incidents
If you experience bullying or harassment, keep a record: date, what happened, who was involved, and who you reported it to. This documentation matters if you need to escalate.
Find a trusted adult
A school counselor, teacher, or coach who is affirming can make a significant difference. You don't have to navigate school alone — even one supportive adult changes outcomes.
GLSEN's National School Climate Survey
GLSEN publishes the most comprehensive data on LGBTQ+ student experiences in US schools, including state-by-state breakdowns and policy analysis.
Read the surveyOrganizations for LGBTQ+ youth
These organizations exist specifically to support LGBTQ+ young people and their families.
The Trevor Project
24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or chat online.
True Colors United
Focuses on LGBTQ+ youth homelessness — resources, shelter directories, and advocacy.
PFLAG
Support for LGBTQ+ people and their families. If your family is struggling, PFLAG has resources for them too.
GLSEN
School safety resources, GSA support, and legal guides for LGBTQ+ students and educators.
It Gets Better Project
Video stories from LGBTQ+ adults sharing their experiences and the lives they built.
Trans Youth Equality Foundation
Education, advocacy, and support specifically for transgender and gender-expansive youth and their families.
Affirming therapy for LGBTQ+ youth
I work with LGBTQ+ young people and adults across 13 states via telehealth. If you're a young person looking for support — or a parent looking for affirming care for your child — I'd be glad to talk.
This page is educational and informational only. It does not constitute medical or mental health advice and does not establish a therapist–client relationship. If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 or the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386.