Content warning: This post contains discussion of mental health, depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicide. If you need support contact QLife on 1800 184 527 (3PM-midnight daily) or Thorne Harbour Health's LGBTIQA+ Mental Health Service.
Our decision makers need to put strategies in place to improve the mental heath and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ South Australians.
LGBTIQA+ people are at high risk of experiencing poor mental health, including psychological distress, depression and anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.
Poor mental health outcomes are associated with our experiences of prejudice, stigma, discrimination, harassment and violence.
We know there are a range of preventative and protective factors that support better mental health outcomes for LGBTIQA+ people including:
- acceptance of our sexuality and gender identity by our family, friends and teachers
- supportive relationships with family and friends
- feelings of belonging to the LGBTIQA+ community
- access to a healthcare provider that respects our LGBTIQA+ identity
- access to mental health services that are LGBTIQA+ inclusive.
We need South Australian decision-makers to put policies, strategies and services in place to improve the mental health outcomes for LGBTIQA+ South Australians.
What's happening on this issue?
LGBTIQA+ inclusion training for crisis and suicide prevention organisations
We’re growing the pool of LGBTIQA+ inclusive and safe suicide prevention services in South Australia Thanks to generous funding from […]
LGBTIQ+ community consultation on the Suicide Prevention Plan
Wellbeing SA and the Premier’s Council on Suicide Prevention are developing SA’s Suicide Prevention Plan 2022-2025. In April 2021, SARAA […]
SUBMISSION: Suicide Prevention Act
In 2021, the South Australian government sought community input into the draft Suicide Prevention Bill. We broadly supported the Bill, […]