Nowadays, LGBTQ+ youth face discrimination in every section of their life, from their family, to school, society and communities. This can have a massive effect in their mental health by causing depression, anxiety that can later lead to suicidal ideation and self harm. Understanding the specific mental health effects on LGBTQ+ youth we must create safe spaces, provide effective support and promote their overall well-being.

  One important factor that can affect their mental health is family. Acceptance or rejection can strongly affect well-being. Acceptance can have powerful effects towards them and help them feel valued and secure them a safe environment. By putting this into action, they can reduce fear, anxiety and make them feel more confident and accepted. Also, it helps them develop resilience. They are better equipped to face discrimination when there has been a foundation of support and self-worth. Furthermore, it can reduce the high rates of homelessness. Many teenagers end up leaving their homes because their family rejects them. More specifically, in Europe at least 20%-40% individuals end up homeless because their family rejects them for being themselves. Especially in the Netherlands it is estimated that at least 900 to 2.000 LGBTQ+ youths were homeless in the country in 2020.

  However, if we do not provide support towards this community it can contirbute to their suffering from a variety of mental health problems. In the UK, approximately 73% of LGBTQ+ youths who experienced gender identity discrimination reported symptoms of depression and 78% reported anxiety in the past year. At least 39% of LGBTQ+ youths seriously considered attempting suicide with transgender and non-binary youth experiencing even higher rates while 12% attempted suicide with again transgender and non-binary youths experiencing higher rates. 

  In order to prevent these rates from rising there are many things that we should be doing. First of all, we can educate families about LGBTQ+ identities to reduce discrimination and misunderstanding. As mentioned, family can play a vital role in preventing discrimination and hateful behaviour. Current anti-discrimination policies are simply ineffective. Legal protection in schools, healthcare and public spaces can reduce social stigma and stress. Inclusive policies empower LGBTQ+ youths, improving mental health outcomes and reducing anxiety caused by discrimination. In addition, we need to ensure a safe and inclusive school environment. By implementing anti-bullying policies they can improve their self esteem, reduce social isolation and help youths engage more fully in education and peer relationships. Furthermore, community support can help by creating community centres, peer networks and mentorship programmes that can provide them with a sense of belonging. Safe housing for homeless LGBTQ+ youth prevents further trauma, reduces stress and supports overall mental well-being. Last but not least, LGBTQ+ affirming counselors and therapists can address unique challenges such as gender dysphoria and discrimination-related trauma. Accessible mental health services can teach healthy coping strategies, reduce self-harm and promote emotional resilience.

 In conclusion, LGBTQ+ youths face significant mental health challenges due to social, familial and educational rejection, stigma and discrimination. These issues are worsened by homelessness and rejection from family.  However, supportive environments, acceptance and encouragement can make a big difference. Families, safe schools, affirming mental health providers and supportive communities can help LGBTQ+ youth build resilience, improve their well-being, and reduce their risks. To provide such safe environments and promote the general mental health of LGBTQ+ children, families, schools, lawmakers and most importantly society at large must work together to solve these issues.

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