Pride Month is a time to celebrate visibility, resilience, and the vibrant identities of the LGBTQ+ community. But while the month of June brings parades and progress, it’s also a crucial time to reflect on the unique mental health challenges that many transgender and non-binary individuals face year-round.
At Oaks Integrated Care, we believe in providing compassionate, inclusive mental health support to every individual, regardless of gender identity or expression. Here’s a closer look at why this matters.
A Disproportionate Mental Health Burden
Transgender and non-binary individuals experience significantly higher rates of mental health conditions compared to the general population. According to The Trevor Project:
- 41% of transgender and non-binary youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year.
- More than half reported symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Experiences of rejection, discrimination, and lack of access to affirming care all contribute to this mental health disparity.
These statistics aren’t just numbers—they represent real lives, often affected by daily stressors that cisgender individuals may never encounter.
Common Mental Health Challenges Include:
Gender Dysphoria
Feelings of distress that arise when someone’s gender identity doesn’t align with their assigned sex at birth. This can lead to anxiety, depression, and isolation, especially in unsupportive environments.
Social Rejection and Stigma
Many individuals face rejection from family, friends, or community members after coming out. This loss of support can result in intense loneliness, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
Discrimination in Health Care Settings
Accessing mental health care can be difficult due to a lack of gender-affirming providers or previous experiences of bias in medical environments. This creates a barrier to receiving vital services.
Economic and Housing Insecurity
Due to job discrimination and systemic barriers, transgender and non-binary people are at higher risk of unemployment and homelessness, both of which are closely linked to mental health concerns.
What Makes a Difference: Affirming Support
Despite the challenges, affirming care saves lives. Research shows that:
- Transgender and non-binary individuals who are respected in their pronouns and names have lower rates of suicide and depression.
- Access to gender-affirming therapy and health care greatly improves quality of life.
- Supportive relationships, whether from family, friends, or community, are among the strongest protective factors for mental well-being.
How Oaks Integrated Care Can Help
At Oaks, we are committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces for all individuals. Our mental health services are grounded in compassion, cultural competency, and trauma-informed care.
We support LGBTQ+ individuals through:
- Individual and family counseling
- Crisis intervention and suicide prevention resources
- Community-based support services
- Access to affirming mental health providers
- Peer support and recovery-focused care
You deserve to be seen, heard, and supported—just as you are.
During Pride Month and Always
Mental health is for everyone, and during Pride Month, we recommit to standing with the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for inclusive care, and ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey alone.
If you or someone you love is struggling, know that help is available. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377.
