A guide to LGBT mental health resources

Members of the LGBT community are more likely to experience problems such as anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and alcohol and drug misuse than the heterosexual population.

Evidence in the Journal of Psychiatry suggests that LGBTQ people are at higher risk of experiencing poor mental health, with a higher suicide rate. Though the reasons for this are complex, LGBT mental health problems have been linked to discrimination, bullying, homophobia, biphobia and/or transphobia.

If you’re suffering from any mental health issues, check out the resources below – and consider speaking to your GP, who may know what help is available locally and can help you decide on potential treatment.

If you’re struggling to cope right now, call the Samaritans on 116 123, available 24 hours, seven days a week.

Stonewall

For help and advice on everything LGBT-related from coming out to criminal law and partnership and parenting rights, head to Stonewall.

And take a look at Stonewall’s What’s in My Area feature, which provides information for queer people on local services and support groups in their communities.

You may use their platform as a LGBT mental health resource.

Tel: 020 7593 1850

LGBTQ Meetups

If you’re struggling alone with mental health issues, try LGBTQ Meetups – a way of finding groups around the world, so that you can meet up with people near you.

Switchboard

Switchboard is the oldest LGBT mental health telephone helpline in the UK. It provides an information, support and referral service for LGBT+ people – and anyone considering issues around their sexuality and/or gender identity.

“We’re here to help you with whatever you want to talk about. Nothing is off limits, and we understand how anxious you might feel before you pick up the phone,” Switchboard promises.

Tel: 0300 330 0630

A large portion of the LGBT+ community suffer from mental health issues (Image: Creative Commons)

London Friend

For those in and around London, London Friend aims to improve the health and mental wellbeing of LGBT people. Services offered include counselling, social and support groups, and telephone advice.

Tel: 020 7833 1674

Mind LGBTQ

Mental health charity Mind has a specific section for LGBTQ people, where you can access information about mental health support. See Mind’s pages on seeking help for a mental health problem for more information on how to get support, and hear more stories from LGBTQ people talking about their mental health here.

MindLine Trans+

Image: Pexels

MindLine Trans+ is a confidential mental health support helpline for LGBT+ people who identify as trans, agender, gender fluid, non-binary – and is also there to support family and friends, and to point people in the direction of other services and resources.

Tel: 0300 123 3393

Elefriends

Mind also runs an online peer support community called Elefriends that welcomes LGBTQ people and offers a friendly, non-judgemental space to talk about how you feel.

Pink Therapy

Pink Therapy is an online directory of therapists who work with LGBTQ clients. The organisation aims to promote high quality therapy and training services for the LGBTQ community.

LGBT Foundation

LGBT Foundation is a national charity delivering advice, support and information to LGBTQ communities. Services and activities include a range of support groups, counselling, helpline, email and pop-in service, befriending scheme, sexual health programme, substance-misuse project, organisational training, and a range of guides and resources.

Tel: 0345 3 30 30 30

Regard

A national organisation of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender and queer people (LGBTQ) who self-identify as disabled, Regard provides information, advice and support to LGBTQ people with disabilities.

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