You:Flourish Highlights the Best Ways to Advocate for LGBTQ+ Students

Pervasive bullying and other social challenges have mental and physical consequences for LGBTQ+ students, including those in Colorado, who report higher rates of substance use than their heterosexual peers. 16% of gay and lesbian youth, and 11% of bisexual youth have been threatened or injured with a weapon on school property, compared to 7% of straight youth.

According to Steven Haden (he/him), founder of You:Flourish,“GLSEN’s Day of Silence holds significant importance in the face of the rising tide of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, as evidenced by the staggering number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced last year, totaling over 600. This annual event serves as a student-led demonstration aimed at protesting the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ people within educational institutions. The Day of Silence serves not only as a protest against discrimination but also as a catalyst for systemic change within educational institutions, ultimately fostering safer and more inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals.”

OFM had the chance to connect with Haden to hear about the best ways to advocate for LGBTQ+ students.

How can we as a community, support LGBTQ+ students who are facing pervasive bullying and other social challenges that are affecting their mental and physical health?

We can create safe spaces where LGBTQ+ students feel supported and accepted. Implement anti-bullying policies, and enforce them consistently. Provide resources such as counseling services and support groups specifically tailored to LGBTQ+ students. This also includes making sure that young people can access services and consent to care without parental interference. Foster a culture of inclusivity and respect through education and awareness campaigns.

How can the LGBTQ+ community and our allies use their voices to fight for LGBTQ+ inclusion and dignity of LGBTQ students?
Advocate for inclusive policies and practices within educational institutions and communities. Amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ youth by providing platforms for them to share their stories and experiences. Organize and participate in events that promote LGBTQ+ visibility and celebrate diversity. Stand up against discrimination and prejudice whenever and wherever it occurs.

 How do we give visibility and shine a light on LGBTQ+ youth and young adults so they feel loved and seen?

Showcase diverse representations of LGBTQ+ individuals in media, literature, and other forms of expression. Host events and activities that highlight the achievements and contributions of LGBTQ+ youth. Encourage open and supportive discussions about LGBTQ+ identities and experiences. Provide mentorship and role models for LGBTQ+ youth to look up to and learn from.

How does one take care of their mental health through channels of improved access to care?

Improved access to mental health care means easier and quicker access to professional support, such as therapy and counseling as well as programs that have been co-created by members of the LGBTQ+ community. It allows individuals to receive timely interventions and treatment for mental health issues. Accessible mental health care reduces the stigma surrounding seeking help and encourages proactive self-care.

What’s the benefit of a youth taking care of their mental health through improved channels to access care?

Better mental health contributes to improved overall well-being, leading to better academic performance, healthier relationships, and increased resilience to life’s challenges. It also helps to reduce the suicide crisis that affects so many queer youth. It helps reduce the risk of developing more serious mental and physical health conditions later in life. Taking care of mental health fosters self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and personal growth.

How does You:Flourish support LGBTQ Youth?

You:Flourish provides a supportive and inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ youth can access mental health resources and support. It offers connections to counseling services tailored to the unique needs and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community with providers that have been vetted by the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GMLA). In cooperation with our nonprofit partners Envision:You and Mental Health Colorado, we advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and work to reduce stigma surrounding mental health within the LGBTQ community, as well as increase access to affirming behavioral health services and programs.

 Is You:Flourish going to work in conjunction with the Envision:You youth program Q is for Questioning at all.

You:Flourish will promote Q is for Questioning, providing greater access to the program for parents, caregivers, teachers as well as other trusted adults in a young person’s life.