Q26: LGBTQIA+ Children & Youth

LGBTQIA+ Introduction
This photo made me smile. It is all about happiness. A feeling that all of us want to have at some point within our lives. Yet, some will interpret this picture negatively for various reasons other than seeing this person as a happy human being. I know that mindset all too well. It is one that I have encountered within my life. It does not feel good at all; however, you learn how to cope with it. Hurt people hurt other people. Misery shapes their mindset and actions. It is the reason that some politicians enact bills that discriminate and hurt others. For example, the Parental Rights in Education Bill dubbed as the "Don't Say Gay" bill that bans sexual orientation and gender identity issues from classrooms in Florida. Considering that 42% of LGBTQIA+ youth and 52% of trans youth seriously considered suicide in 2021 in American, (NEA, 2022), I think we need to keep our children and youth talking and feeling comfortable in the classroom. Anti-gay rhetoric increases mental health related issues with our LGBTQIA+ children and youth. My goal with this blog is to educate others about the mental health of LGBTQIA+ children and youth. It is not intended to persuade anyone to be more accepting of individual differences. Allow your own conscious to guide you on that one. However, let's start with the basics: What does LGBTQIA+ mean?

LGBTQIA+ Basics
The term "LGBTQIA" is an acronym that represents a range of sexual orientations and gender identities. Here's what each letter typically stands for:

• L: Lesbian - Referring to women who are attracted romantically, emotionally, and/or sexually to other women.
• G: Gay - Typically used to describe men who are attracted romantically, emotionally, and/or sexually to other men. However, it can be used more broadly to encompass all individuals who identify as non-heterosexual.
• B: Bisexual - Describing individuals who are attracted romantically, emotionally, and/or sexually to both men and women.
• T: Transgender - Referring to individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender people may identify as male, female, or non-binary.
• Q: Queer or Questioning - "Queer" is an umbrella term that encompasses diverse sexual orientations and gender identities that don't conform to heterosexual or cisgender norms. "Questioning" refers to individuals who are exploring their own sexual orientation or gender identity.
• I: Intersex - Intersex individuals are born with sex characteristics (such as chromosomes, hormones, or reproductive anatomy) that don't fit typical male or female classifications.
• A: Asexual - Describing individuals who do not experience sexual attraction or have a lack of interest in sexual activity. Asexual individuals may still experience romantic, emotional, or aesthetic attractions.

*If you really want to learn more, take a look at the variety of LGBQIA+ flags*
Link: queerintheworld.com/different-lgbtq-flags-and-meaning/

LGBTQIA+ Hate
Now that you understand what the acronym means, it's disheartening to me that some people harbor hate towards LGBTQIA+ children and youth. This hatred, however, is hurting them. There are many reasons why some people hold negative attitudes toward this population starting with ignorance and lack of exposure. People who have limited exposure to diverse sexual orientations and gender identities may lack understanding and empathy. Ignorance can contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes, fear, and prejudice. Here are other reasons:

1. Fear and Insecurity: Some individuals may feel threatened by what they perceive as different or unfamiliar. Fear of the unknown or insecurity about their own beliefs or identities can manifest as hatred or discrimination.
2. Cultural or Religious Beliefs: Cultural or religious teachings can sometimes clash with the acceptance of LGBTQIA individuals. Traditional interpretations of religious texts or deeply ingrained cultural norms may promote homophobia or transphobia.
3. Societal Conditioning: Societal norms and expectations play a significant role in shaping attitudes and behaviors. If a society or community promotes discrimination or marginalization of LGBTQIA individuals, some people may adopt those views.
4. Personal Bias or Prejudice: Some individuals may hold personal biases, prejudices, or preconceived notions about LGBTQIA individuals. These biases can be deeply rooted and difficult to change without education and exposure to diverse perspectives.
5. Power and Control Dynamics: Hatred and discrimination can sometimes be driven by a desire to exert power and control over marginalized groups. These actions may be a reflection of broader societal power structures and inequalities.

Importance of Accepting LGBTQIA+ Children & Youth
Love is missing. To me, it is a lot easier to love than to hate and all LGBTQIA+ children and youth want is to be loved. Positive emotions toward them will decrease their negative feelings. These children may have a sexual orientation or gender identity that is different from societal norms or expectations and as a result, can face unique challenges and experiences in their personal lives, schools, and communities. You can help them by doing the following:

• Acceptance and support: LGBTQIA+ children thrive in environments where they feel accepted and supported for who they are.
• Understanding sexual orientation and gender identity: It's important for adults in a child's life to educate themselves about different sexual orientations and gender identities. 
• Open communication: Encouraging open and honest communication is essential. LGBTQIA children may have questions about their own identities, feelings, or experiences. Creating a non-judgmental environment where they feel comfortable discussing these topics can help foster a sense of trust and provide the necessary support they may need.
• Bullying and discrimination: LGBTQIA children may face higher risks of bullying and discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. It's crucial to address and combat these issues promptly. 
• Advocacy and allyship: Supporting LGBTQIA children extends beyond individual interactions. It's important to advocate for policies and legislation that protect their rights and well-being. 
• Mental health support: LGBTQIA children may be more susceptible to mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues, due to societal stigma or rejection. 

Mental Health & LGBTQIA+ Children & Youth
Important: LGBTQIA+ individuals face unique challenges and experiences that can impact their well-being and mental health. Some of the areas impacted include:

1. Minority Stress: LGBTQIA+ individuals often experience minority stress, which refers to the additional stressors and challenges they face due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. 
2. Coming Out: The process of coming out, or revealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity, can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. 
3. Family Rejection: Family support is crucial for mental well-being, but some LGBTQIA individuals may face rejection or hostility from their families. 
4. Discrimination and Violence: LGBTQIA individuals may encounter discrimination, prejudice, and even violence based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. 
5. Intersectionality: The experiences of LGBTQIA individuals are not uniform, as they can also face intersecting forms of discrimination and oppression based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, or other identities. 
6. Access to Mental Health Care: LGBTQIA individuals may face barriers when seeking mental health care, including lack of culturally competent providers, fear of judgment or discrimination, and limited access to affirming and inclusive services. 

Conclusion
Remember, hatred and prejudice are learned behaviors, often rooted in ignorance, fear, and deeply ingrained societal biases. We do not need to hate anyone as a result of their unique differences. We need to do a much better job with supporting the mental health of LGBTQIA+ children and youth. Let's promote acceptance, create safe and inclusive spaces, provide access to LGBTQIA+-affirming mental health care, and challenge stigma and discrimination. You all better learn how to love one another!

Image by Sabrina_Groeschke from Pixabay