Sexual Identity and mental health

Mental health problems such as depression or self-harm can affect any of us. But they're more common among people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans.

This may be linked to LGBT people's experience of discrimination, homophobia or transphobia, bullying, social isolation, or rejection because of their sexuality.

Other things, such as their age, religion, where they live, and their ethnicity can add extra complications to an already difficult situation.

How talking therapy can help

It might not be easy, but getting help with issues you're struggling to deal with on your own is one of the most important things you can do.

Talking with a therapist who's trained to work with LGBT people may help with issues such as:

• difficulty accepting your sexual orientation
• coping with other people's reactions to your sexuality
• feeling your body does not reflect your true gender (gender dysphoria)
• transitioning
• low self-esteem
• self-harm
• suicidal thoughts
• depression
• coping with bullying and discrimination
• anger, isolation, or rejection from family, friends, or your community
• fear of violence

When to get help

Do not suffer in silence. You should get help as soon as you feel you need it. It's never too late to get help, no matter how big or small your problems might seem.

You could benefit from a talking therapy if you:

• feel tired or lack energy
• feel tearful
• shut yourself away from people
• no longer want to do things you used to enjoy
• use alcohol or drugs to help you cope with your feelings
• harm yourself or have thoughts about self-harming
• think about suicide

Where to get help

If you're struggling to cope right now, contact us on 

• Call 1190 (open from 8AM to 10PM, every day) [link on the website]
• Sms 1190 (open from 8AM to 10PM, every day) [link on the website]

Support organizations

MAAYGO

GALK Kenya 

Hoymas