As a member of the LGBT+ community, you may find yourself as the subject of discrimination.

This can often be a strain on your mental health.

You may have experienced homophobia, biphobia or transphobia, or faced social exclusion because of your gender or sexuality. Others may be worried about 'coming out' and telling family and friends about their sexuality - or may have already had a bad experience around this.

However, it's important to embrace your identity, as this can make you more confident, boost your self-esteem and increase your resilience.

If you're lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, non-binary, queer, questioning, or identify your sexuality or gender in other ways, you may be more likely to experience mental health problems.

This could include:

Though identifying as LGBT+ itself has no bearing on these problems, factors such as homophobic bullying, stigma and social isolation can have a real effect on wellbeing.

You may have seen some of our staff wearing NHS rainbow badges. The badges are just one way to show that NAViGO is an open, non-judgemental and inclusive place for people that identify as LGBT+.

If you see someone wearing a badge, you can ask them about it. The badge is a reminder that you can talk to our staff about who you are, be open about your identity and how you feel. They will do their best to get support for you if you need it.

If you’re in a mental health crisis and need urgent help, call the Single Point of Access on (01472) 256256 and select option 3. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Alternatively, you can call NHS 111 free from a landline or mobile phone.

If you’d rather text than talk on the phone, you can text ORANGE to 85258 to contact a trained volunteer from Shout. They’ll be able to help you reach a place of calm and, if necessary, signpost you to local services. This is a free, 24/7 service.​​​​

Inclusion is our fortnightly peer-to-peer group for young people who are members and allies of North East Lincolnshire’s LGBT+ community. Based at The Attic on the top floor of the Carers’ Support Centre and open to those aged between 16 and 25 years old, it’s a safe space to meet others, make friends and take part in activities with like-minded people.

Included is a monthly peer-to-peer support group exclusively for parents, partners and carers of the LGBT+ community. 

NHS Talking Therapies offers a range of therapies aimed at helping you to deal with the effects of stress, anxiety and depression and should be your first port of call if you’re looking for support. You can self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies online.

Safespace provides instant support if you’re vulnerable and need assistance with your mental health out-of-hours. You can speak to the team in person at NAViGO House on Brighowgate in Grimsby, using Zoom or by calling in via telephone.

If you’re under 16, speak to your GP, who may be able to refer you to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.

This Book is Gay: Juno Dawson’s book is a guide to sexuality and gender for young people, written by a young adult author

Gendered Intelligence: A not-for-profit community interest company aiming to increase understanding of gender diversity. They have A Guide for Young Trans People in the UK.

The Albert Kennedy Trust: Provides support for LGBT+ young people who are homeless or living in a hostile home environment

Stonewall: Stonewall are here to let all lesbian, gay, bi and trans people, here and abroad, know they're not alone.

LGBT Foundation: The LGBT Foundation supports the needs of the diverse range of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans.

Consortium for stronger LGBT+ communities: This website has a searchable directory of specialist LGBT+ services.

Mindline Trans +: A support line for people identifying as trans or non-binary.

GALOP: An organisation that supports all LGBT+ people who've experienced hate crime, domestic abuse or sexual violence

NHS mood self-assessment: This short questionnaire will help you understand how you’re feeling and signpost you to the most appropriate support.

Orcha Apps Library: This library lists thousands of NHS-approved health apps by condition, making it quick and easy for you to find support.

Every Mind Matters: This Public Health England campaign shares hints and tips developed with experts and approved by the NHS.

Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays: FFLAG supports parents, friends and family members of those who identify as LGBT+

Rainbow Call Companions: A free telephone befriending service specifically for LGBT+ people over the age of 75.

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