National Coming Out Day (Oct 11) is a point of pride for many individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community who are ready to share this part of their identity, and can foster hope for those who are not yet ready or are afraid to disclose part of who they are. Even with the advancements that have been made, there is still work to be done as the LGBTQIA community continues to face discrimination, denial of civil rights, rejection from family and communities and other barriers which can impact mental health. Individuals are 2-4 times likely to experience mental health events and have higher rates of suicide.
If you are struggling with coming out or experiencing mental health challenges related to your LGBTQIA identity, please contact Michelle House for individual counseling, 304-788-6976 or 304-788-6977 (crisis line) mahouse@mail.wvu.edu
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions/LGBTQI
https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions/LGBTQI