Happy Pride – Be a Safe Space

Monday, June 5, 2023

Supporting the mental health of LGBTQIA+ individuals is crucial to promoting their overall wellbeing and inclusivity. Unfortunately, members of the LGBTQIA+ community often face unique challenges and stigmatization that can negatively impact their mental health. As allies and supporters, it is important to create a safe and affirming environment. Maryland Wellness is happy to be a safe space for all by providing inclusive, gender-affirming and SOGI (sexual orientation, gender identity) aware care. ALL ARE WELCOME HERE. We encourage allies to: 

Educate Yourself

Understanding the diverse experiences and identities within the LGBTQIA+ community is an essential first step. Educate yourself about the different sexual orientations, gender identities, and related terminology. This knowledge will help you foster empathy and communicate respectfully.

Promote Inclusivity

Create an environment that values diversity and promotes inclusivity. Use gender-neutral language, respect chosen pronouns, and challenge discriminatory behaviors or comments when you encounter them. Small actions like these can contribute to a safer and more accepting space.

Listen and Validate

One of the most powerful ways to support LGBTQIA+ individuals is to be a good listener. Create a non-judgmental atmosphere where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences, concerns, and successes as people. Validate their feelings, acknowledging the challenges they may face as people and due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Offer Supportive Resources

Familiarize yourself with mental health resources specifically tailored to the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Share information about LGBTQIA+-friendly therapists, support groups, helplines, and online communities. Ensure they know where to seek professional help if needed.

Be Mindful of Mental Health Triggers

Recognize that LGBTQIA+ individuals may face unique stressors that impact their mental health. Discrimination, rejection, and societal pressures can contribute to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. Be sensitive to these challenges and provide support when needed.

Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights

Support LGBTQIA+ rights and actively advocate for equality. Attend local events, participate in Pride activities, and educate others about the importance of LGBTQIA+ rights. By standing up against discrimination and inequality, you help create a more affirming society.

Celebrate Achievements and Progress

Recognize and celebrate the achievements and progress made by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Highlight positive role models, share success stories, and raise awareness of the contributions they make to society. This positive reinforcement can boost self-esteem and mental wellbeing.

Foster Community Connection

Encourage LGBTQIA+ individuals to connect with supportive communities and organizations. This can include LGBTQIA+ centers, social groups, sports clubs, or online forums. Building connections with others who share similar experiences can foster a sense of belonging and support.

Supporting the mental health of LGBTQIA+ individuals requires empathy, understanding, and active efforts to create an inclusive environment. By educating ourselves, offering support, and advocating for equal rights, we can help build a society that values and respects everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Together, let’s contribute to a world where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive mentally and emotionally.

Recent News

Join us at our Youth Resource Day on Sept. 16 in McHenry

Join us for an exciting day filled with valuable resources, fun and opportunities for young people and their families! This in-person event will take place on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 270 Mosser Road, McHenry, MD 21541. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/682293376857! At the Youth Resource Day, we aim to provide a platform for young individuals to…

Read More

Join us at Breaking Through Barriers on Sept. 9 in Cumberland

Join us for an exciting event, Breaking Through Barriers, where we will come together to celebrate personal growth and overcoming obstacles. This in-person event will take place on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Fort Avenue, Cumberland, MD 21502. Register here. Breaking Through Barriers is all about pushing boundaries, challenging ourselves, and embracing change. Whether you’re…

Read More

The Role of Family, Wraparound Services and Relapse Prevention in Recovery

At Maryland Wellness, our trained Substance Use Disorder (SUD)/Addictions Counselors incorporate a variety of treatment modalities, including intensive outpatient and outpatient groups to support clients in developing a recovery-based lifestyle. Our goal is to help each person improve social/cognitive functioning, as well as coping skills, surrounding their wellness, recovery and resiliency. The following is a…

Read More

“I have received positive feedback from clients that have been referred to your organization.”
– Partner
“I do nothing but give praise to this establishment. My first time there, I was very nervous, but that quickly changed once I was greeted by the amazing staff in the front office. I can never leave that place with a frown on my face. I would recommend this facility to anybody in need of mental and drug counseling. They are the best I have ever experienced, and that is no lie.”
– D.J., Baltimore
“When I first started, I was afraid to talk but once they started telling me about this program, I started to open up more. They taught me that I am important; it’s about me today. They have taught me to forget about the past and focus on my goals – my GED,  nursing, helping the homeless, volunteering, etc. This is the most amazing, awesome program in Baltimore, and that’s from my heart. The staff is wonderful, amazing, beautiful, unique and have hearts of gold.”
– K.S., Baltimore
“When I came here, I was broken. But I got the help that I needed, and I got the services that were good for me. I will be starting a brand new job! I’m so glad this place was recommended to me, and I’m so glad I came.”
– V.H., Baltimore

Subscribe to Maryland Wellness Updates

Subscribe