Ways to help Black LGBTQ+ youth cope with trauma and be a supporter and ally
The below article is revised from a resource on TheTrevorProject.org by Dr. Tia Dole, the organization's Chief Clinical Operations Officer.
According to The Trevor Project, Black LGBTQ+ young people hold multiple marginalized identities with experiences such as discrimination, rejection, threats and violence having the potential to compound and possibly lead to negative mental health outcomes.
In addition, research suggests that Black LGBTQ+ youth are less likely than other LGBTQ+ youth to receive professional counseling, despite having similar rates of mental health disparities. Now more than ever, LGBTQ+ Black young people need support from parents, caregivers and youth development professionals.
As youth try to cope with heightened social division in recent years, many may be experiencing a variety of feelings such as grief, a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, a desire to disconnect from white allies, rage, fear and numbness, said Dr. Tia Dole, Chief Clinical Operations Officer of The Trevor Project.
Caring adults should reassure them that it is completely normal to experience some or all of these feelings as they are true and valid to their unique experiences. It’s equally important that we provide youth with some ways to understand and cope with the anxiety and stress they may be feeling when seeing social injustice, hate crimes and racial inequities in the news and/or in their communities.
“What can I do to take care of myself?” is the biggest question on the minds of many youth, said Dr. Dole. Here are a few suggestions to help support Black LGBTQ+ youth as they try to cope with recent events.
We encourage you to use the following tips to support yourself and care for the Black LGBTQ+ young people in your lives.
Youth may experience some days that are tougher than others, we want to acknowledge that experiencing a range of emotions at this time is normal. It’s important to remind them that they are not alone and have the support of trusted, caring adults.
If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, contact The Trevor Project's TrevorLifeline 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386. Counseling is also available 24/7 via chat every day at TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678-678.
For more information on the unique needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities of color, we recommend these resources:
Learn more about how Boys & Girls Clubs of America supports youth mental health. Clubs provides mentorship, programs and meaningful life experiences that boost youth self-esteem, build confidence and contribute to overall positive and healthy wellbeing. Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest resources and stories.
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