Growing up is a complex journey for everyone, and for LGBTQIA+ kids and teens, the path can be especially tricky. From navigating identity to facing social stigma, LGBTQIA+ youth often encounter unique challenges and stressors that can impact their mental health.
LGBTQIA+ youth are at elevated risk for mental health issues due to factors like discrimination, bullying, and lack of support. These challenges can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. In my work as a psychologist at Children’s Health Council, I specialize in working with gender diverse youth and those who are seeking support for gender exploration and identity development, including many clients who identify as LGBTQIA+. Holistic support for LGBTQIA+ youth is incredibly important. Providing compassionate and collaborative care is crucial in helping them manage anxiety, mood concerns, and identity development.
Research shows that one of the most important and powerful protective factors we have for teens is to have supportive parents. You can actually save your child’s life by honoring who they are.
Understanding the Stressors
LGBTQIA+ youth often face a variety of stressors that can affect their mental well-being, including societal stigma, family rejection, and internalized negative beliefs about their identity due to heteronormative culture and expectations. Left unaddressed, these factors can make kids feel isolated and lonely.
The lack of representation and support from their schools and communities can exacerbate these feelings. Without affirming environments, LGBTQIA+ youth may struggle to find acceptance and understanding, which in turn has a negative impact on their mental health.
Building Supportive Environments
Creating safe and affirming spaces is an important step toward reducing the stress LGBTQIA+ youth experience. Educators and school administrators can play a critical role by implementing policies that protect LGBTQIA+ students from discrimination and bullying. Incorporating LGBTQIA+ topics into the curriculum can also help foster a more inclusive environment.
Families, too, are instrumental in providing support. Listening to your child, open communication, acceptance, and affirmation of a child’s identity can significantly reduce stress and promote resilience. Research shows that one of the most important and powerful protective factors we have for teens is to have supportive parents. You can actually save your child’s life by honoring who they are.
Learn how you can be an ally and advocate as your child navigates their path towards self-identity and independence. Check out this podcast to learn how to support your child’s natural gender exploration.
Accessing Professional Support
For LGBTQIA+ youth and their families navigating stress and identity exploration, mental health support is vital. CHC’s clinical services team provides compassionate care that respects and affirms each individual’s identity, providing tailored interventions that address the unique needs of every family. To learn more about how CHC can support your family, reach out to our Care Team.
Meet The CHC Expert
Tracy Cavaligos, PsyD , Dr. Tracy Cavaligos, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist dedicated to supporting the mental health of children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She specializes in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, chronic illness, gender diversity, and identity development. With a holistic and compassionate approach, she also provides psychological assessments for attention and learning concerns. Dr. Cavaligos earned her PsyD from Pacific University and completed her fellowship at Children's Hospital of Orange County. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, yoga, and spending time with her puppy.
