Even as society becomes more accepting, our laws seem to be moving backward. Anti-LGBTQ legislation is being passed across the country, from Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill to Texas denying trans youth vital healthcare. These bills are scary and demonize an already marginalized group of people. It's important to stay vigilant and live your truth during these times, while also taking care of your mental health.
The mental toll of homophobia and transphobia
The stigma that many state governments are now advocating can have serious effects on your mental health. When you feel ostracized from your community and physically unsafe, you may feel lowered self-esteem and shame.
You might also develop depression or chronic anxiety. LGBTQ people who are rejected and discriminated against are more likely to attempt suicide, suffer from drug addiction, and have risky sexual encounters.
What can you do?
It might feel overwhelming when the news is focused on the state government’s discriminatory laws. It’s easy to get beaten down by constant messaging that who you are is shameful. But it’s important to push on and live authentically. Here are a few ways you can cope in these uncertain times.
Find an online community
One wonderful thing about the internet is it can put you in contact with anyone in the world. If you’re feeling isolated, you can connect online with countless people just like you. Forging these kinds of friendships can give you the social outlet you need to feel safe where you live. You might also meet people who have developed ways of existing in hateful spaces that you can learn from.
Relocate
Moving away isn’t always possible. It’s also a complicated decision. Those who have the resources to leave a place that’s unwelcome to queer people are likely well-off and less burdened by financial or familial ties.
But if the choice is between moving and feeling emotionally traumatized, it’s okay to prioritize your wellbeing. If relocating is among your options, weigh it carefully. Even if it seems unthinkable, it might be the right choice to save your mental health.
Become active in campaigns
Area politics change because people get involved. Perhaps part of the reason you want to stay where you are is to help better it. If you begin working with a local political group or volunteering with a queer-focused nonprofit, you’ll be put in contact with like-minded people.
In a place where it seems like everyone is voting for these conservative bills, you’ll still find enclaves of folks working to fight these hateful ideas. You might even develop deep new relationships with people you meet there. There’s safety in numbers.
Step away from the news
While it might sound like a privileged take, sometimes it’s important to take a social media and 24-hour news cycle break for a while. When you’re stuck in the cycle of reading about the worst-case scenario, you’re more likely to wallow in dread and anxiety.
This isn’t to say that your state’s anti-LGBTQ laws won’t affect you. But focusing on the bad all the time isn’t healthy. There’s a difference between arming yourself with knowledge and doomscrolling. Try to set limits on where and when you look at the news and social media.
Talk to a professional
If you feel you’re developing persistent anxiety symptoms or sinking into a depression, seeking counseling might be the right idea. Find a therapist who specializes in queer issues, particularly dealing with homophobia, bi-phobia, and transphobia. They can help you work through the trauma you’re experiencing. A licensed mental health professional will also give you healthy coping skills to get you feeling safer again.
To find out more about how therapy can help you when you’re facing discrimination, please reach out to me for gay men’s counseling.