Imagine you wake up one day and you are being unequally treated for something that you can’t control? That fear and sadness that you feel is something that millions of LGBTQ+ youths are feeling at this current moment. Every morning there is a new anti-LGBTQ+ bill being added to the already large number of 467 bills, as stated by ACLU’s map of attacks on LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. State Legislature. Many people are sweeping this information under the rug by distracting others with the newest celebrity relationship or the best way to cook chicken. There is more information to be learned . America has become a terrifying place for the current LGBTQ+ youth, but there are ways to help them.

In 2022, The Trevor Project had created a survey where it was revealed that 73% of the community reported having symptoms of anxiety, and 58% reported experiencing symptoms of depression. With these high rates of mental health issues, and current events that have been happening over the last two years, there are extremely high chances that the LGBTQ+ youth community is struggling right now. Dr. Myeshia Price had stated that even though their data continues to show high rates of mental health and suicide among the LGBTQ+ youth, it is crucial to note that these rates vary widely based on the way they are being treated. With this in mind, essentially take the elementary line of treat others how you want to be treated seriously in this situation. 

While knowing this information, if you are friends or related to someone within this community, reach out to them. Check in with them and make sure they are doing okay. You showing that you care enough to make sure they are okay in these times is going to make them feel safer. This is especially important when it comes to those on the younger side of the LGBTQ+ youth. They are new to this world and community, but they are only seeing hate in a place where they are supposed to be safe. Going out of your way to just check in and give them someone to talk to could go a long way. 

There was research created by The Trevor Project where they had reports from LGBTQ+ youths who had, or currently are, homeless. It stated that those who experienced being homeless were dealing with higher rates of mental health challenges. They also reported they had higher rates of being victimized, put into foster care, and insecure about food. If you compare those rates, you would see a vast difference. The difference of what it looks like when one person is being supported, while the other isn’t. The results alone scream values.

You now know about the issues they have gone through. I hope you see a bigger picture of what is currently going on. Maybe you want to help, but don’t know where to begin? There are a few things you can do. A couple are at a higher level, while the other are minor everyday things.

The number one thing you can do if you are currently 18 and older is vote. Voting on the next election will help in the long run. When there is an election or public vote and it features an anti-LGBTQ+ bill, vote against it. Raise the numbers of being against it so that they can live better. You can also find local shelters and programs that offer help and homes for those who are struggling. By applying time, or donations, you can safely know that these people are getting the help they need.

There are also a couple minor things you can do as well. Using the correct name that they gave themself, along with their correct pronouns, will give them a sense of relief. Provide a safe space of being known as who they are will scream louder than words ever could. Doing any one of the options that I offered on how to help will at least help one person. There are also more ways you can support. Become their ally in this time of need. 

Offering a safe home to this community will create beauty. Our own community would become one with the LGBTQ+ youth community. Help out and stay caught up on current bills so that we can create a safe place for this community. Be their voice when they can’t shout loud enough. Fight for them and be at their side to help.