Gives information about mental health support for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, queer or questioning (LGBTIQ+).
Some of us identify as LGBTIQ+. This means we may be lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, non-binary, queer or questioning. Or we may define our gender and sexuality in other ways. Stonewall's glossary lists many more terms.
Anyone can experience a mental health problem. But those of us who identify as LGBTIQ+ are more likely to develop problems like:
Being LGBTIQ+ does not cause these problems. The reasons why those of us with LGBTIQ+ identities are more likely to get them are very complicated. But it is most likely to do with facing things like:
It's important to remember that embracing your LGBTIQ+ identity can also have a positive impact on your wellbeing. It might mean you have:
"So I decided to come out as bisexual to my family and friends, one by one, which really helped me grow in my confidence. Things are getting better with my mental health too."
It's important to remember that you deserve support and respect, whatever your identity or background. And you have legal rights to access healthcare without discrimination.
Our page on LGBTIQ+ mental health support covers lots of options. This includes tips on self-care, seeking help and specialist LGBTIQ+ services.
Our page of useful contacts also lists many more places you could turn to for advice and support.
Watch Christine talk about her experiences of seeking help after her wife passed away.
This information was published in February 2020. We will revise it in 2023.
References are available on request. If you would like to reproduce any of this information, see our page on permissions and licensing.