Pride month and mental health
Recognising the impact this celebration has on the mental health of the LGBTQIA+ community.
As we step into Pride Month 2024, it’s important to recognise the impact this celebration has on the mental health of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Pride Month and mental health are heavily linked, because Pride creates an environment that promotes acceptance, self-expression, and community support. In this article, we’ll explore this further.
The history of pride month
Pride Month, observed every June, commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969 in New York City. This was a milestone event in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights.
The UK held its first official Pride March in London in 1972, inspired by the movements in the United States.
Over the decades, Pride in the UK has grown from a protest march with a few hundred participants, to a nationwide celebration attracting millions.
Of course, it’s not just a celebration but also a reminder of previous activism and the progress made in achieving equality.
Pride Month 2024 marks another step in this journey, emphasising the continuous need for solidarity, support and celebration.
The positive connection between pride month and mental health
Pride Month and mental health have a positive connection that uphold each other. Here are some of the reasons why Pride Month significantly benefits mental health:
Affirmation of identity
For many LGBTQIA+ individuals, Pride Month is an opportunity to affirm their identity publicly.
This affirmation is crucial for mental health, as it helps combat internalised homophobia and transphobia.
Celebrating your identity openly can reduce feelings of shame and isolation, fostering a sense of pride and self-worth.
Community and belonging
Pride events create a sense of community and belonging, which are vital for mental health.
These events bring together individuals who share similar experiences, providing a supportive network that can be life-saving.
Knowing that you are not alone in your journey significantly boosts emotional well-being and resilience.
Visibility and representation
Seeing diverse representations of LGBTQIA+ people during Pride Month can be incredibly validating.
Visibility matters, as it challenges stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive society. For many, seeing people like themselves celebrated and represented positively can alleviate feelings of invisibility and marginalisation.
Advocacy and empowerment
Pride Month is not only a time for celebration but also for advocacy.
Engaging in activism can empower individuals, giving them a sense of purpose and agency. This empowerment can lead to improved mental health.
Embrace yourself this Pride Month and beyond
At Vita, we want everyone to be able to embrace who they are.
Talking therapies can help you navigate complex feelings regarding LGBTQIA+ issues. For support, you can self-refer here.
