May 17 marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. It's a day to stand together, raise awareness, and remind the world that everyone deserves to live openly, safely, and with pride. It’s also a powerful moment to reflect on something that often remains overlooked: the importance of mental care for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Why Mental Care Matters
Facing discrimination, rejection, or misunderstanding can leave deep emotional scars. Studies consistently show that LGBTQIA+ people are at a higher risk of experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges — not because of who they are, but because of how the world often treats them.
Taking care of your mental health isn't just important; it's essential. It's about giving yourself the space, support, and love you need to heal, grow, and thrive.
Ways to Support Your Mental Well-being
Here are some reminders and ideas that can help:
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Seek out affirming spaces. Whether it's an LGBTQIA+ community group, a supportive friend circle, or a therapist who understands queer and trans experiences, being around people who see and celebrate you can make a huge difference.
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Set boundaries. It’s okay to distance yourself from situations, conversations, or people that drain your energy or make you feel unsafe.
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Celebrate small victories. Even small steps, like reaching out for help or taking a moment to breathe, are worth recognizing.
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Practice self-compassion. Some days are harder than others. That’s okay. Being gentle with yourself is an act of resistance in a world that isn’t always kind.
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Access resources. Hotlines, mental health organizations, and online support networks exist — and many are specifically geared toward LGBTQIA+ individuals.
LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Resources
If you are looking for support, here are some organizations and resources that can help:
Also, we created a blogpost about more places for Gender Support.
International
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ILGA World — A global federation advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and offering a wealth of resources: ilga.org
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Transgender Europe (TGEU) — Supports trans communities across Europe and Central Asia: tgeu.org
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It Gets Better Project — Shares uplifting stories and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth: itgetsbetter.org
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MindOut — A mental health service run by and for LGBTQIA+ people: mindout.org.uk
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The Trevor Project — Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQIA+ youth: thetrevorproject.org
Netherlands
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COC Nederland — Advocacy and support for LGBTQIA+ people across the Netherlands: coc.nl
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Transvisie — Support organization for transgender people and their families: transvisie.nl
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113 Zelfmoordpreventie — Suicide prevention helpline in the Netherlands: 113.nl
Other Helpful Platforms
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Switchboard — LGBTQIA+ helpline offering chat and phone support: switchboard.lgbt
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Qwell — Free digital mental health support for LGBTQIA+ people: qwell.io
You Are Not Alone
If you’re struggling, know this: You are not alone.
There is a whole community, a whole world, standing with you. Organizations, friends, and allies are here to lift you up and remind you that your story matters — today and every day. Read this blogpost to find online places for support.
At UNTAG, we believe that caring for your mental health is just as important as the fight for rights, visibility, and acceptance. We see you. We support you. We are proud to stand beside you.
Share and Save
Mental care is vital, and nobody should feel they have to navigate it alone.
Save this list, share it with friends, or post it where others might see it.
You never know who might need it today — or someday soon.
Together, we can create a world where every LGBTQIA+ person feels seen, supported, and celebrated. 🏳️🌈
