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The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is committed to fostering the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth, a particularly vulnerable population in Central Pennsylvania. We believe that creating a nurturing and accepting environment can significantly improve their mental health outcomes. Within this article, we share actionable advice for allies, parents, educators and mental health professionals to effectively support these youth and promote their resilience.

Strengthen Social Support Networks

Social support plays a pivotal role in LGBTQ+ youth’s well-being. Parents, family members, teachers, friends and classmates can provide emotional backing and resources to counter potential hardships.

What can you do?

• Offer acceptance. A high level of acceptance from friends and family reduces suicide ideation and attempts among LGBTQ+ youth.
• Encourage the building of relationships with both LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ allies to foster resilience and create a sense of community.

Encourage Access to Role Models

Positive portrayals of LGBTQ+ individuals in media and real life can evoke hope and reduce feelings of isolation among LGBTQ+ youth.

What can you do?

• Introduce the LGBTQ+ youth in your circle to role models they can relate to.
• Connect with local support network in the Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon and York areas.

Cultivate Supportive Environments

Schools, homes and communities that are inclusive and protective positively impact LGBTQ+ youth’s mental well-being.

What can you do?

• Encourage your local schools to endorse the formation of Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) and enforce comprehensive anti-bullying policies.
• Request local businesses establish all-gender bathrooms.

Develop Coping Mechanisms

Promoting safe spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can explore positive coping skills such as seeking LGBTQ+ resources, practicing mindfulness and talking to supportive individuals is essential to their mental health and well-being.

What can you do?

• If you are an educator, counselor or health professional, demonstrate that your office is a safe zone, encouraging LGBTQ+ youth to share their experiences without fear of judgment.

Keep Learning

Continual education about LGBTQ+ identities and challenges is fundamental to effective support.

What can you do?

• Connect with the following organizations to expand your knowledge and work towards creating a world that respects and cherishes diversity: Anti-Violence Project, LGBT Center of Central PA, Matthew Shepard Foundation, Out & Equal, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), Straight for Equality.
• Visit the annual Pride Festival of Central PA.

Eliminate Shame

Acknowledge and affirm LGBTQ+ youth’s experiences.

What can you do?

• Start nonjudgmental discussions to encourage open dialogue.
• Practice active listening.
• Avoid dismissive statements. For example, “It’s just a phase” or “You’re too young to know.”
• If you witness any behavior or language that is disrespectful or harmful towards LGBTQ+ people, address it immediately.

Affirm Their Individuality

Treat LGBTQ+ youth like any other child to reinforce their sense of normalcy and belonging.

What can you do?

• Show interest in their passions and acknowledge their achievements to foster their confidence and self-worth.

Respect Their Coming Out Process

Navigating the complex journey of self-disclosure is a deeply personal process for LGBTQ+ youth. Support them during this transformative period by respecting their autonomy and preparing them for potential challenges.

What can you do?

• Allow LGBTQ+ youth to determine their timeline and the people they wish to disclose their identities to.
• Ensure they feel prepared to handle potentially challenging situations by helping them to strengthen their self-assurance.

Seek LGBTQ+ Affirming Health Care Providers

Identifying physical and mental health providers who affirm and support LGBTQ+ individuals can significantly improve their well-being.

What can you do?

• Connect with LGBTQ+ supportive organizations in your community.

With understanding, compassion and the right tools, we can all contribute to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth. Your support can make all the difference.

If you’d like to learn more about the PPI’s approach to LGBTQ+ mental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, 866-746-2496 or through our website. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.

At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), we advocate for the creation of a mentally healthy work environment that supports all employees, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. By revising policies, initiating conversations and taking proactive action, Central Pennsylvania businesses can foster a more inclusive atmosphere.

“At PPI, we understand the intricate interplay between mental health and every facet of life, particularly in our work environments,” shared Ruth S. Moore, director of community engagement, diversity & inclusion. “Inclusivity and acceptance aren’t just nice to have. They are essential. They fuel healthier mental landscapes, reduce stress and elevate engagement and dedication. As an organization, we stand firm on the belief that an environment that prioritizes mental health and celebrates diversity isn’t just morally correct — it’s a smart business strategy. Such an atmosphere encourages innovation, creativity and productivity, molding a workplace where every individual is empowered to thrive.”

Eight Ways to Create an Inclusive and Supportive Workplace for the LGBTQ+ Community

In the quest for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, the first step is to voice your commitment to nondiscrimination loud and clear. It is essential to incorporate this commitment into employee handbooks or official nondiscrimination statements, explicitly including sexual orientation and gender identity.

Developing an inclusive atmosphere begins with the formation of an LGBTQ+ group for employees. Moreover, the company can illustrate its support by participating in Pride events and advocating for LGBTQ+ causes. For example, PPI attends the annual Pride Festival of Central PA, actively highlighting our support for the queer community.

Leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity. Clear communication from management about the importance of diversity and acceptance sets a transparent company stance and lays the groundwork for an open culture.

Building diversity into HR policies is a strategic way to foster acceptance. This involves reaching out to university LGBTQ+ groups during recruitment, enforcing structured interviews to remove biases, and holding interviewers accountable for their selection. Ensuring these inclusive values are reflected on the company’s website and social media channels is equally important.

It’s crucial to communicate inclusivity right from the recruitment stage. All job postings should explicitly state that all orientations and gender identities are welcome to apply. This clearly signals LGBTQ+ inclusion, encouraging potential candidates to apply.

Offer resources and training to your employees for better LGBTQ+ inclusion. Help them understand the importance of respectful behavior and using preferred pronouns. This ensures that everyone can interact as they wish to be interacted with.

Show your pride not only during Pride Month but all year round. Whether flying the rainbow flag or launching social media campaigns, each effort communicates your commitment to equality.

Starting an ally program for LGBTQ+ employees lay a strong foundation for a more diverse and inclusive work environment.

The Value of an Inclusive and Supportive Workplace

Navigating today’s business world requires a keen understanding of diversity and inclusion. It’s no longer enough to merely open doors to different groups. Today, the most successful companies actively court diversity, knowing that a wide array of experiences and perspectives can significantly enhance the work environment and the company’s overall performance.

Enhanced Creativity and Problem-solving: A diverse workforce encompasses a broad array of experiences, skills, perspectives and insights. This diverse pool of knowledge and experiences sparks innovation, creativity and strategic thinking. Employee relationships are also strengthened when coworkers can connect based on their diverse backgrounds or shared experiences, which improves workplace collaboration.

Smarter Decision-making: Diversity enables a wider range of sources and experiences to draw from, leading to more informed decisions and better business outcomes. Diverse individuals are known to process facts more carefully, contributing to smarter, data-driven decisions.

Increased Profits and Productivity: Inclusive companies often attract ambitious professionals, resulting in a more motivated, efficient workforce, and increased productivity and profitability. A survey from Indeed, a global job site with over 250 million monthly unique visitors, found that 55% of job seekers deem it highly important to work at a company that prioritizes diversity and inclusion.

A multifaceted approach is essential to support LGBTQ+ mental health in the workplace. Incorporating these steps will not only foster a more productive, effective and loyal team but also enhance overall business performance.

Discrimination At Work

Are you a LGBTQ+ worker experiencing discrimination in the workplace? The Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition offers a guide to workers facing discrimination and the actionable steps they can take to respond.

Find the guide on their website.

Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is proud to advocate for accessible, inclusive mental health care for all. We understand that for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) community, finding resources tailored to their unique experiences and needs can be a challenge. That’s why we’re dedicating this blog post to sharing a list of resources available in Central Pennsylvania for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking support.

Support Groups

LGBT Center of Central PA
The LGBT Center employs four full-time staff: an Executive Director, a Director of Training & Education, a Director of Youth Programs and a Youth Programs Coordinator. With this small but dedicated team, the Center serves over 2,000 people each year across Dauphin, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties, and seeks to be responsive to the changing needs of our communities in our programming and our strategic priorities.

GLO
GLO is a community resource center for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults of color, centering the experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ men of color and trans women of color. They provide free and confidential STI/HIV testing on-site, virtual therapy, access to PrEP and a variety of other social services. GLO is committed to reducing the community’s HIV viral load by testing and linking individuals to HIV care and prevention.

Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition
The Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition is committed to building a supportive and enriching community abundant in opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals and those with a stake in creating a more inclusive Lancaster County.

PFLAG York
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, or PFLAG York promotes the health and well-being of all lesbians, gay, bisexual, transgender and other queer individuals and their parents, family and friends through support, education and advocacy. They provide the opportunity for dialogue about sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and act to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity. PFLAG York will not give up until society accepts all its members as equals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

Rainbow Rose Center
The Rainbow Rose Center fosters an environment of inclusion, equity and health where all LGBTQ+ community members thrive in York County. They envision an inclusive community where all York County individuals feel safe and welcome in their everyday lives.

TransCentralPA
TransCentralPA is committed to providing advocacy and caring support for transgender individuals, their significant others, families, friends and allies. TransCentralPA also provides gender education and information to businesses, organizations, educational institutions and governmental agencies. Their monthly gatherings provide a safe and nurturing place for members and guests to meet together to better understand, accept and take pride and joy in their transgender lives.

Mental Health Assistance

Call BlackLine
Call BlackLine provides a space for peer support, counseling, reporting of mistreatment, witnessing and affirming the lived experiences for folx who are most impacted by systematic oppression with an LGBTQ+ Black Femme Lens. Call BlackLine prioritizes BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color).

• 800-604-5841

LGBT National Help Center
All of LGBT National Help Center’s support volunteers identify as part of the LGBTQ+ family, and are here to serve the entire community, by providing free and confidential peer support, information and local resources through national hotlines and online programs.

• LGBT National Hotline: 888-843-4564
• LGBT National Youth Talkline: 800-246-7743
• LGBT National Senior Hotline: 888-234-7243

SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline
Talk and be heard at the SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline. They connect LGBTQ+ older people who want to talk with friendly responders ready to listen. The Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Spanish, with translation in 180 languages.

• 877-360-5428

The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project’s mission is to end suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. Their counselors will listen without judgment. All of your conversations are confidential, and you can share as much or as little as you’d like.

• 866-488-7386
• Text ‘Start’ to 678-678

Trans Lifeline
Trans Lifeline is a trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support and resources they need to survive and thrive.

• 877-565-8860

If you’d like to learn more about the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute’s approach to LGBTQ+ mental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, 866-746-2496 or through our website. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.

As Pride Month unfolds, a time dedicated to celebrating victories and acknowledging the struggles of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) community, we must shine a spotlight on an issue often not spoken about enough — transgender mental health. At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), our commitment to deepening the understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by the transgender community is unwavering. We are equally devoted to promoting strategies for resilience and personal growth.

Transgender individuals, those who identify as a gender different from their assigned sex at birth, confront unique societal, personal and systemic challenges that can significantly impact their mental health. Pervasive realities of discrimination, stigma and systemic bias can give rise to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression and distress. Alarmingly, suicide rates among transgender individuals are higher than the general population.

Research underscores the magnitude of these challenges. For instance, a sobering study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh in 2020 revealed that approximately 85% of transgender adolescents had seriously considered suicide, and over half had made at least one suicide attempt. This underscores the urgent need to address mental health issues within this vulnerable population.

Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. At PPI, we believe there are three key areas that need our attention:

Lack of Acceptance
Stigma and discrimination are among the most significant obstacles to mental health for transgender individuals. These can appear in various forms, from microaggressions and harassment to explicit violence and rejection by loved ones. The persistent battle against stigma can often lead to chronic stress, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression.

Healthcare Inequality
Global healthcare systems often fail to meet the specific needs of transgender individuals due to a lack of training and awareness among healthcare professionals and discriminatory practices and policies. This frequently results in subpar care, delayed or inaccessible treatments and a deep mistrust in healthcare providers.

In Pennsylvania, Penn State Health offers services that help to meet the specific healthcare needs of the transgender community.

Internalized Negative Beliefs
Internalized transphobia and transmisia can stem from absorbing negative societal beliefs and attitudes about being transgender. This can lead to diminished self-esteem, self-worth and a negative impact on overall mental health.

Dealing with mental health is a complex process for everyone, and for the transgender community, it becomes even more difficult due to specific stressors like gender dysphoria. This necessitates unique coping strategies. Below are a handful of tactics that can help alleviate these challenges and promote mental well-being:

Clothing and Personal Style
Transgender individuals may find relief from gender dysphoria by dressing in the clothing of their preferred gender. This can include ‘under-dressing’ or making subtle changes to personal style, such as adopting a new hairstyle, using skincare products or applying subtle makeup. These measures can serve as a reminder of their identity and alleviate feelings of distress. It’s also worth noting that engaging in these activities gradually can help prepare for an eventual social transition.

Digital Presence
Engaging online as one’s preferred gender can be a helpful way to express oneself and interact with others in a safe and understanding environment. This can include participation in online forums, social media platforms and support groups.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
For some, the use of gender-affirming hormone therapy can be an effective way to align physical characteristics with their chosen gender identity. This can help reduce the dysphoria experienced by individuals whose physical appearance doesn’t align with their gender identity. It is critical, however, to undertake this step under the guidance of healthcare professionals who can monitor the process and provide necessary support and advice.

At PPI we promote the following strategies to create a meaningful difference:

Increasing Accessibility to Culturally Competent Healthcare
The need for healthcare services that are informed, sensitive and responsive to the unique experiences of transgender individuals cannot be overstated. This involves educating healthcare professionals about transgender health issues, creating safe and non-discriminatory healthcare environments and adopting practices that affirm and respect patients’ gender identities.

Community Support
Having a robust, supportive community can have a profound role in promoting mental health. Peer support groups, online communities and organizations dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues can offer a safe space for transgender individuals to share their experiences, feel validated and gain encouragement.

Mental Health Services
Mental health services can help transgender individuals understand their feelings and thoughts and learn effective coping strategies. Access to mental health services tailored to their specific needs can also play a key role in addressing mental health concerns.

Advocacy and Allyship
Support from allies, who might not identify as LGBTQ+ but stand in solidarity with the community, is critical. Allies can play a significant role in challenging stigmatizing attitudes, advocating for rights and inclusivity and providing emotional support to transgender individuals.

As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s also reflect on the unique mental health challenges faced by transgender individuals. Together, our collective efforts can create a world where every transgender person feels accepted, supported and free to express their identity. At PPI, we’re dedicated to this cause. Together, we can construct a safer, more inclusive world for all.

As we navigate our way through the 21st century, we recognize that the promotion of understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations is more important than ever. Among these orientations, bisexuality is one that often tends to be misunderstood or even stigmatized, leading to several misconceptions. At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), we aim to educate and empower our community about these matters, shedding light on the truth behind these stereotypes. Today, we’ll delve into the world of bisexuality, examine its relationship with mental health and provide guidance on how you can support bisexual individuals in your life.

Dispelling the Myths

Myth #1: Bisexuality is a phase or a sign of confusion.
One of the most prevalent misconceptions about bisexuality is that it is a temporary phase or an indication of confusion. This belief can trivialize and invalidate the experiences of bisexual individuals. The reality is, bisexuality, like other orientations, is a valid, enduring identity. It’s not a phase someone will “grow out of” nor is it a sign of indecisiveness.

Myth #2: Bisexual individuals are promiscuous and unfaithful.
Another harmful stereotype is that bisexual individuals are inherently promiscuous or incapable of maintaining monogamous relationships. This stereotype erroneously conflates sexual orientation with personal behavior. It is important to note that sexual orientation, whether one identifies as bisexual, homosexual, heterosexual or anything else, does not predetermine one’s values, behaviors or beliefs about relationships.

Myth #3: There’s no such thing as bisexuality.
This pervasive myth, especially targeting men, asserts that bisexuality doesn’t exist and those claiming to be bisexual are simply “in transition” or pretending. This perspective erases the complexities of human sexuality, confining it to a binary.

Scientific research, such as a study from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, provides strong evidence against this myth. The study found that, unlike heterosexual or gay men who were predominantly aroused by one gender, bisexual men demonstrated arousal to both genders in both self-reports and objective physiological measurements.

This research underscores that bisexuality is a genuine, distinct sexual orientation. It’s vital to reject simplistic, binary views and acknowledge and respect the diverse experiences of sexuality, including bisexuality.

Bisexuality and Mental Health

The stigma and discrimination attached to these misconceptions about bisexuality can lead to minority stress, which can, in turn, impact mental health negatively. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, bisexual individuals are more likely to experience anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges compared to their heterosexual counterparts. It’s important to understand that these disparities are not because of bisexuality itself but rather because of societal attitudes and prejudices.

When discussing mental health and bisexuality, it’s crucial to acknowledge the unique risk factors that can affect the mental well-being of this community. These risk factors aren’t inherently tied to bisexuality but are associated with societal reactions and prejudices that bisexual individuals may encounter.

Coming Out
The process of revealing one’s bisexuality can introduce mental health risks, especially when young individuals face nonsupportive environments.

Rejection
Rejection from family, friends or community after coming out can be profoundly distressing, affecting mental well-being.

Trauma
Bisexual individuals can experience trauma due to discrimination, including homophobia and biphobia, potentially increasing their risk of PTSD.

Substance Use
Substance misuse, often used as a coping mechanism, is a significant concern in the LGBTQ+ community, including bisexual individuals.

Homelessness
Bisexual individuals, particularly youth, face a higher risk of homelessness, often stemming from family rejection and discrimination.

Suicide
Suicidal thoughts and attempts are higher among the LGBTQ+ community, including those identifying as bisexual.

Inadequate Mental Health Care
Unique mental health challenges faced by bisexual individuals are often overlooked in mental health care, and fear of discrimination can deter them from seeking help. Culturally competent, inclusive mental health providers are key to addressing these challenges.

“We recognize and value the unique mental health challenges faced by the bisexual community. We strive to ensure quality and accessible care that respects and supports the diverse identities of our patients. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where no one hesitates to seek help due to fear of harassment or discrimination. Your identity is acknowledged here, your experiences are validated and your mental health is our priority.”
– Evalina Santos, Outpatient Resource Coordinator, PPI

PPI offers support to not only those who identify as bisexual but their families as well. You can learn more by contacting the admissions department at 866-746-2496.

Promoting Understanding and Support

As allies, it’s crucial to acknowledge and understand these realities. Here are some ways to support bisexual friends, family or loved ones:

Advocate
Use your voice to challenge biphobic comments or attitudes when you encounter them. Stand against discrimination and prejudice.

Education
Understand what bisexuality is and what it is not. Knowledge is the first step in dismantling stereotypes and misconceptions.

Encourage Open Conversation
Promote a safe, nonjudgmental space where your loved ones can express their feelings, fears and experiences. Active listening goes a long way in showing your support.

Mental Health Support
Understand that your loved one may face unique mental health challenges. Encourage them to seek professional help and reassure them there’s no shame in doing so.

Validate Their Identity
Bisexual individuals often face ‘bisexual erasure’ or ‘bisexual invisibility’, where their identity is dismissed or overlooked. Acknowledging and affirming their identity is a simple yet powerful act of support.

Understanding bisexuality and its relationship with mental health is a crucial part of creating a more accepting society. By dispelling myths and promoting understanding, we can all contribute to reducing the stigma and promoting mental health and well-being among our bisexual loved ones. At PPI, we stand firm in our commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for all, irrespective of their sexual orientation.

Advanced Bi+ Allyship
https://pflag.org/resource/pao-advancedbiallyshiprecording/
Embarking on the journey to become an ally requires sincere introspection about personal biases—a process that evolves as the participant matures as an ally. The PFLAG Advanced Bi+ Allyship Guide, a 201-level training module, aims to further the reader’s understanding of the bisexual+ community—those who can be attracted to more than one gender—and equip them with resources and knowledge to become a stronger bi+ ally.

Bisexual Glossary
https://bi.org/en/glossary
The bisexual glossary on Bi.org is a project of the Bi Foundation, also known as The American Institute of Bisexuality (AIB), a 501(c)(3) private foundation that supports and sponsors projects likely to promote bi visibility and improved understanding of bisexuality through education, research, training and outreach.

Resource Guide to Coming Out as Bisexual (Human Rights Campaign)
https://www.hrc.org/resources/resource-guide-to-coming-out-as-bisexual
The resource guide for coming out as bisexual from the Human Rights Campaign is designed to prepare individuals for the potential challenges of coming out as bisexual and to provide the tools to come out and live openly wherever and whenever the reader is safe, able and ready.

Understanding Bisexuality
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/understanding-bisexuality/
The Trevor Project provides a comprehensive guide to understanding bisexuality.