Your Authentic Self this Pride
This Pride Month, it is of utmost importance that everyone gets the chance to be their authentic self.
Celebrating diversity and uniqueness can have a positive impact on both mental health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, for some, being forced to hide their sexuality in order to please others and fit in, can lead to a number of adverse effects on their psychological and emotional development. As clinicians in mental health and wellbeing, we understand that it can be extremely difficult, especially for young people, to feel comfortable expressing their true selves when this expression may be met with judgement or hostility.
We recognise that when we do not celebrate Pride Events or support equal rights, it not only reinforces negative stereotypes, but it can also place a burden of guilt and shame onto those who identify within the LGBT+ community. The pressure of having to ‘behave’ in certain way to fit into a set of societal expectations can have a wide variety of serious health implications, including; depression, stress and anxiety.
Given this, it is of utmost importance that this upcoming Pride Month, everyone works to ensure those within the LGBT+ community are able to express their identity in a safe and judgement-free environment. It is only then that we can truly appreciate, recognise and celebrate the diversity, inclusion and acceptance of the LGBT+ community. It is the right of every person to be able to express their own sexuality without the fear of judgement or emotional turmoil.
As parents and guardians, it is vital that we, too, do our part in encouraging our children to embrace their sexuality and be proud of who they are, without consequence or fear of rejection. We cannot control what our children may be exposed to, but we can do a great deal to ensure that they have a strong sense of self-esteem and self-love. We must remember that no matter the outcome, our children must be accepted for who they are and what they are.
We must also remember that our own emotional state and reactions can have a major impact on our children, and we must try to remain as open and accepting as possible when discussing their sexuality. Below we have provided some practical steps that parents and guardians can take to ensure that young people are supported and respected during this Pride Month:
1. Educate yourself: Research the history and issues within the LGBT+ community. Educating yourself not only helps in communicating more effectively with your children, but it also demonstrates that you take their identity seriously and are willing to listen.
2. Have an open dialogue: Openly discussing the issues your children may face is key in establishing a strong parent-child relationship. Being open and approachable towards any conversations they may have on sexuality will help your children feel heard and accepted.
3. Participate in equal rights events: Showing your children that being involved in equal rights events is socially acceptable can be incredibly empowering. Don’t hesitate to take part in Pride parades or other LGBT+ events and show your children that you are proud and supportive of their identity.
4. Listen and respect: Listening more than you speak is incredibly important. As parents, we may not understand everything our children are going through, but simply being there for them and showing understanding and support can mean the world. Respect their decisions and any new relationships they decide to form.
5. Seek help: If your children are struggling or are confused about their sexuality, seeking professional help may be a great avenue for them to explore. Professionals can provide an open and judgement-free environment which may, in turn, provide your children with the opportunity to express themselves without fear or worry.
This Pride Month, let us ensure that everyone - especially those in the LGBT+ community - is able to be their true self, free from fear and judgement. Let us take steps to learn what we can do to ensure our children’s safety and wellbeing, and help them to develop a strong sense of self-appreciation and self-love.
Author: Stephanie Mace, Brodi Killen and Samantha Pearce. Educational and Developmental Psychologist - With You Allied Health Directors
References:
Catania, J.A., Field, N.G., & Pollack, L.M. (2000). Experiences of stigma in a sample of gay men and lesbian women. The Journal of sex research, 37(3), 249-261.
Friedman, R. S., Makadon, H. J., Phillips, K., Dawson, D. A., & Dubé, E. (2019). Improving the health care of LGBT people: Understanding and eliminating health disparities. JAMA, 321(21), 2075-2076.
McManus, S., Bebbington, P., Jenkins, R., & Brugha, T. (2001). Sexual identity, social exclusion and mental health. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 36(2), 76-82.