” Imagine knowing at a young age that you are different. Imagine you learn that being different is ok.
Imagine that you feel safe and nurtured in your families, culture and society. Imagine that you develop a strong sense of connection to a diverse community. Imagine you are taught to love what makes you different. Just imagine…”
– Al Zwiers, HeretoHelp
LGBTQ people face:
LGBTQ youth face approximately 14 times the risk of suicide and substance abuse than their heterosexual peers
77% of trans respondents in an Ontario-based survey had seriously considered suicide and 45% had attempted suicide
Higher rates of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and phobic disorders, suicide, self-harm, and substance use
Double the risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than heterosexual people
Long-term stress or negative feedback around being different can manifest into anxiety and depression. Having support is extremely important to someone dealing with mental health.