LGBTQ+ Support Resources & Mental Health Services
Find trusted support, crisis intervention, mental health services, and community resources for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Crisis & Emergency Support
🚨 If you're in immediate danger, call 911
If you or someone you know is in immediate physical danger or having thoughts of self-harm, contact emergency services immediately.
The Trevor Project
24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth under 25
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
24/7 free and confidential support
Trans Lifeline
Transgender peer support hotline
LGBT National Crisis Hotline
Peer-support and local resource information
Mental Health & Counseling
Finding LGBTQ+-Affirming Therapists
Specialized Mental Health Resources
Community Support Organizations
Human Rights Campaign
Largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization
- • Advocacy and policy work
- • Educational resources
- • Workplace equality programs
GLAAD
Media advocacy and cultural change
- • Media representation
- • LGBTQ+ stories and resources
- • Anti-defamation work
National Center for Transgender Equality
Transgender rights and advocacy
- • Policy advocacy
- • Know Your Rights guides
- • Legal resources
It Gets Better Project
Hope and support for LGBTQ+ youth
- • Inspirational videos
- • Youth support programs
- • Anti-bullying resources
LGBTQ+ Community Centers
Local community support and services
- • Support groups
- • Social events
- • Local resources
Lambda Legal
Legal advocacy and civil rights
- • Legal help desk
- • Know Your Rights resources
- • Impact litigation
Health & Medical Resources
Healthcare Providers
World Professional Association for Transgender Health
Standards of care and provider directory
Visit WPATH →Health Information
The National LGBT Health Education Center
Training and technical assistance for healthcare providers
Educational Resources →Educational Resources & Reading
Recommended Books
Coming Out, Coming Home
by Deanna Rodger - A guide for LGBTQ+ young adults
The Velvet Rage
by Alan Downs - Understanding gay men's psychology
Redefining Realness
by Janet Mock - A transgender memoir and guide
Mom, Dad, I'm Gay
by Michael Sterling - A guide for families
Online Learning
Financial & Legal Support
Financial Assistance
Legal Resources
Lambda Legal Help Desk
Free legal information and referrals
Coming Out Guide & Support
🏳️🌈 Coming out is a personal journey
Coming out is the process of accepting and sharing your sexual orientation or gender identity. There's no right or wrong way to come out, and it's entirely your choice when, how, and to whom you share this information.
Before You Come Out - Things to Consider
💭 Self-Acceptance First
- • Take time to understand and accept yourself
- • Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor
- • Connect with LGBTQ+ communities online or locally
- • Read books and resources about your identity
🏠 Safety Assessment
- • Ensure you have emotional and physical safety
- • Consider your living and financial situation
- • Have a support network ready
- • Plan for various reactions from others
📅 Timing Considerations
- • Choose a time when you feel ready
- • Avoid stressful periods or family conflicts
- • Consider starting with supportive people first
- • Remember: there's no deadline
💬 Conversation Planning
- • Practice what you want to say
- • Prepare for questions and reactions
- • Have resources ready to share
- • Choose a comfortable, private setting
Coming Out Strategies by Audience
👨👩👧👦 Coming Out to Family
Family reactions can vary widely. Some may be immediately supportive, while others may need time to process.
Helpful Approaches:
- • Start with the most supportive family member
- • Share educational resources about LGBTQ+ topics
- • Emphasize that you're still the same person
- • Give them time to process and ask questions
What You Might Say:
👥 Coming Out to Friends
Friends often provide some of the most supportive reactions, but it's still important to choose carefully.
Best Practices:
- • Start with your most trusted friends
- • Choose one-on-one conversations initially
- • Be prepared for surprise but positive reactions
- • Respect their need to process the information
Sample Conversation:
🏢 Coming Out at Work/School
Professional environments require more careful consideration of policies and potential consequences.
Before Coming Out:
- • Research company/school anti-discrimination policies
- • Know your legal protections in your area
- • Consider starting with trusted colleagues/classmates
- • Have HR or counseling resources ready
Gradual Approach:
- • Use inclusive language about relationships
- • Mention LGBTQ+ events or causes you support
- • Gradually become more open about your identity
- • Set boundaries about personal questions
Dealing with Different Reactions
✅ Positive Reactions
Many people respond with love and support:
- • "Thank you for trusting me"
- • "I love you no matter what"
- • "How can I support you?"
Response: Express gratitude and let them know how much their support means to you.
⚠️ Surprised/Neutral Reactions
Some people need time to process:
- • "I didn't expect this"
- • "I need time to think"
- • "I don't understand, but I'm trying"
Response: Give them space while offering to answer questions and provide resources.
❌ Negative Reactions
Unfortunately, some reactions may be hurtful:
- • Rejection or anger
- • Attempts to "change" you
- • Religious objections
Response: Prioritize your safety and well-being. Have support resources ready.
Coming Out Support Resources
📚 Helpful Resources
Human Rights Campaign Coming Out Center
Resources, guides, and support for coming out
Visit Resource Center →"Mom, Dad, I'm Gay" by Michael Sterling
A helpful book for individuals and families
🆘 Support Hotlines
LGBT National Hotline
Peer support and local resource information
1-888-843-4564
The Trevor Project
24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth
1-866-488-7386
🌈 Remember
You are in control: You get to decide when, how, and to whom you come out.
It's a process: Coming out isn't a one-time event—it's ongoing throughout your life.
You deserve love and acceptance: You have the right to be yourself and be loved for who you are.
Support is available: You don't have to go through this alone—help and community are available.