Everyone’s mental health is important, but young queer folk face very particular issues. Here’s where to find support.
While many mental health charities and resources will have dedicated departments for LGBTQIA+ people, their approach might not fully grasp the impact. Some aspects of queer life bring unique mental health challenges. The below services are all geared towards the intersection of queer identity and mental health.
Switchboard
The Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline is open 10am-10pm everyday. Their volunteers and operators are there to listen and can even help you calmly evaluate your options. You can also find an online chat service on their website, as well as an email if you can’t talk on the phone.
Phone: 0800 0119 100
E-mail: [email protected]
MindOut
A mental health charity focused entirely on LGBTQIA+ folk, MindOut has a wide variety of services available. Peer support groups, telephone befriending, advice and advocacy are among their main offerings. The latter can be particularly helpful if you need a confident voice to speak up for you at your uni. Contact them to make an appointment.
Phone: 01273 234839
E-mail: [email protected]
Student Minds
Now I know we made a big deal about these being LGBT+ specific services, but Student Minds isn’t. It is, however, geared towards students. They could be a great place to get a second opinion or check options regarding your uni career. They have Student Space if you need more immediate support, details of which are below.
Phone: 0808 808 4994 (3pm-12am)
E-mail: [email protected]
Text: Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
Gendered Intelligence
Focusing on the specific issues faced by the trans community, Gendered Intelligence provides resources and information about the trans experience. They also have a support group Waiting List Warriors for those impacted by the lengthy NHS Gender Clinic waiting times. This group meets virtually and has a support line, details below.
The helpline is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 2pm-7pm and Wednesday, Friday 10am-3pm.
Phone: 0330 3559 678
E-mail: [email protected]
Whatsapp: 07592 650 496
Galop
Set up specifically for LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing abuse, Galop has resources and a helpline. Whether it’s domestic violence, sexual abuse, a hate crime or conversion therapy, they’re there to help and listen.
Their opening hours are Mon-Thur 10am-8:30pm and Friday 10am-4:30pm, but they will respond to messages left on their answering machine.
Phone: 0800 999 5428
E-mail: [email protected]
If you're struggling but not quite in crisis mode, we've got a ton of articles about mental wellbeing with tips and tricks for coping with what life throws your way.
