Why Pride?
In honor of Pride month, I think that it is very important to those who identify, resonate or are in correlation with there LGBTQIA+ community. Pride month is a celebrating time for those in the LGBTQIA community and those who support LGBTQ rights. This month is dedicated to recongnizing and uplifting LGBTQ voices and culture. Nationwide people have known to attend protests, parades, drag performances and memorials in respect and rememeberance of those who lost their lives due to HIV/AIDS and or suicide.
The LGBTQIA+ symbol is commonly known as the rainbow flag. This flag was created by Gilbert Baker in 1978.
Fun fact: Every color in the symbol has a meaning!
Red: life
orange : healing
Yellow: sunshine
green : nature
Blue: Harmony
Purple: spirit
So How does this correlate with mental health? I thought you’d never ask!
Among the general population, middle aged men are more susceptible to committing suicide. Alongside this, research has also found that the attempted suicide rates & suicidal ideation are significantly higher in LBGTQ youth among the general population. This is very alarming due to the fact that the % of adults in the U.S population who don’t identify as heterpsexual has doubled in the last 10 years from 3.5% to 7.1%.
In addition to that, I would like to add that LGBTQ relationships are aslo more susceptible to domestic violence relationships. It is believed when facing the law with these situations, same sex couples or identifying orienation.. Are not taken seriously.
Here are some changes that have been made within the last decade & more:
Gay marriage in the states
The term “Gay” no longer being a disorder in the DSM-5
You will no longer get prosecuted for PDA or being intimate with your partner in your own home.
The discrimination of individuals based on their secual orientation became an organized violation in international human rights law.
Enough about the education piece, I want to challenge you this month to NOT ONLY tell someone who you know identifies in this community that you love them, but SHOW them as well. There is plenty of backlash and extra eyes on these individuals day in & day out when all they really want is to be themselves without judgment. Tell them you appreciate them, they are loved & show them that too!
If you are someone who identifies with this community this applies for you too! I challenge you to show YOURSELF this love that you desire from everyone else. Dedicate time to pour back into YOU and spend time around ppl who support you.
You are loved. You are amazing. You are a light that keeps on shining. <3
Here are some resources to keep in mind. Utilize them or share with someone you know!
Genderbread person: a visual tool for understanding sexuality & gender
Trans lifeline
US 877-565-8860
Canada: 877-330-5366
The Trevor Project: suicide prevention resource for youth under 25
866-488-7386
With love,
Mariah Banks x Our.PerspecKtive
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