GAMIAN-Europe’s Post

This week, we honored National Coming Out Day, recognizing the courage it takes to live authentically. Coming out can be a transformative journey, and its impact on mental health is critical. I came out as LGBTQIA+ at 25, and I was fortunate to have the love and support of my family and friends. Even before my own coming out, I identified as an ally and have supported the community for many years. I’ve witnessed the impact of owning your story and being authentic, thanks to the bravery of my LGBTQIA+ friends who inspired me to embrace who I am. As we also observed World Mental Health Day this week, it’s important to highlight the mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. According to the Trevor Project: - 39% of LGBTQIA+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including 46% of transgender and nonbinary youth. - LGBTQIA+ youth of color reported even higher rates than their White peers. - 50% of LGBTQIA+ young people who sought mental health care in the past year were unable to access it. - 66% reported experiencing recent symptoms of anxiety. These numbers highlight the importance of acceptance and support. Coming out isn't just about personal freedom; it’s about fostering a culture of understanding that can significantly improve mental well-being. Every time we embrace our authenticity, we create a positive chain reaction that empowers others to do the same. Let’s work together to create spaces where everyone feels safe and supported in their identity. #NationalComingOutDay #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealth #Citiproud #Authenticity

On World Mental Health Day, we recognize the importance of mental well-being for everyone, everywhere. Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) means addressing mental health with a holistic and inclusive approach, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or identity, has access to the support they need. Mental health is deeply connected to DEI efforts. Inclusive environments help reduce stigma, promote understanding, and provide equitable access to resources for those facing mental health challenges. Let’s continue to create spaces where mental health is valued, and everyone’s well-being is prioritized. The HACR - Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility is leading a powerful coalition of allied organizations representing historically underrepresented groups, including Asian Americans, Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities, women, and Black and Hispanic communities.  Launched in Washington, HACR President and CEO Cid Wilson began a 240+ mile trek from Capitol Hill to Wall Street in New York City’s financial district.    Our commitment to change is unwavering. This is why we continue to work alongside our incredible partners to champion #DEI at every level of corporate leadership. Visit WalktoWallStreet.org to learn how you can get involved.    Let’s stand up for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, we can make a difference.   #HACR #DiversityEquityAndInclusion #CaminamosJuntos #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters #DEI #InclusiveCare #EndTheStigma

On this last day of National Minority Mental Health Month, I want to shine a spotlight on the mental health experiences of Black and Brown women. Black and Brown women often navigate multiple layers of stress and adversity, including systemic racism, gender discrimination, and cultural stigmas around mental health. Despite these challenges, we continue to show up for work, family and friends. However, it's crucial that we acknowledge the struggles and advocate for better mental health support tailored to our needs. Here are a few steps you can take to support Black and Brown women in their mental health journey: 🔺 Promote Awareness: Share resources and stories that highlight the mental health experiences of Black and Brown women. 🔺 Encourage Open Dialogue: Create safe spaces where women can discuss their mental health without fear of judgment. 🔺 Support Access to Care: Advocate for equitable access to culturally competent mental health services. 🔺 Empower Through Education: Provide education on mental health to dispel myths and reduce stigma within our communities. Continue to amplify the voices of Black and Brown women, and support their mental health. #MinorityMentalHealthMonth #MentalHealthAwareness #BlackWomen #BrownWomen #MentalHealthMatters #Inclusion #Support #Wellbeing

Episode 2 Break the Stigma Campaign: Men’s Mental Health Matters Here are some key takeaways that resonated with us : 1️⃣ Challenging Stereotypes Our speakers highlighted the pressing need to challenge stereotypes around men expressing emotions. Breaking down these barriers is crucial for fostering a healthier dialogue around mental well-being. 2️⃣ Supportive Environments Creating supportive environments emerged as a central theme. It's not just about talking; it's about establishing spaces where men feel empowered to share their experiences without fear of judgment. 3️⃣ Gender Disparity The conversation underscored the significance of recognizing and addressing gender disparity in the realm of mental health. Advocating for men's rights in this context is a pivotal step towards breaking stigma. 4️⃣ Diverse Expectations We explored the diverse dimensions of expectations placed on men. From societal norms to individual pressures, understanding and reshaping these expectations can lead to a healthier mental health landscape. 5️⃣ Empowering Conversations The power of ongoing conversations cannot be overstated. By continuously breaking down barriers and fostering open discussions, we can empower individuals to prioritize their mental health journey. A massive thank you to our insightful speakers Ahmad Abid Humayun Hamayun Khan, MBA, MSIB Uday Banga and everyone who contributed to this meaningful dialogue. Let's keep the conversation going, break down stigma, and collectively work towards a more supportive and understanding society. #BreakTheStigma #MensMentalHealthMatters #EmpowerThroughConversation #EndTheSilence

Part 3: Embracing Mental Health in Gender-Affirming Care   🏳️⚧️ Continuing the Journey – 🌟 Join us for the final installment of our gender-affirming care series on #TransParents, where we address the critical topic of mental health, including challenges like suicidal ideation, among trans individuals transitioning from prepubescence to adolescence to young adulthood. Jenni and I are honored to have Transgender Matter Expert and Social-Psychologist, Dr. Diana Sorrentino, Ph.D., returning to share her knowledge with us.    🎬 Agenda Highlights: 🔎 Mental Health Matters: Understanding the complex mental health challenges and resilience in the trans community. 🔎 Expert Insights: Dr. Sorrentino offers her wisdom on supporting mental well-being during these crucial life stages. 🔎 Community and Connection: The power of support networks in fostering mental health. 👩🎓 Why It’s Imperative: 🌟 Education: Learning about the mental health landscape for trans individuals. 🌟 Rights: Advocating for comprehensive mental health resources and support. 🌟 Awareness: Highlighting the importance of mental health care in the journey of gender affirmation. 🎙 Attached is a topical index for Dr. Sorrentino's podcast, Paradoxes of Gender, where you can find more in-depth knowledge on tonight's topics and the other topics we’ve covered in this three-part series. I'll attach the link to her podcast in the comment section. 💙 Support the Path Forward: Join us in creating an inclusive future for all trans individuals at 7 PM ET tonight here 👉: https://lnkd.in/eWByVxrC 👈   📢 Raise Your Voice: Help us highlight the importance of advocating for comprehensive adolescent gender-affirming care.   🏳️⚧️ Together, let's continue to foster a space where love, acceptance, and knowledge flourish. 🏳️⚧️   PS If you're struggling as a parent to talk to your child, reach out to TransPARENT today! Let us offer you some light.💡   #TransParents #SupportTransYouth #AdolescentCare #MentalHealth #Healthcare #Empowerment #Inclusivity #TransPARENT   Tiny Ripples ➡ Waves ➡ Tsunami of Love 🌊❤️

This year marks the 30th anniversary of International Men's Health Week, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the health issues men face and promoting their overall well-being. The focus this year is on Men's Health Checks, encouraging men to take proactive steps towards better health. This Men's Health Week, we're proud to support the initiative by raising awareness of men's mental health issues. At Griffith's Centre for Mental Health, our experts are making significant contributions: 🌈 Associate Professor Chris Pepping highlights the unique challenges faced by gay, bi+, and trans men within LGBTQ+ communities and emphasises the critical role of close relationships in maintaining mental health. Strong, supportive relationships can significantly improve mental well-being, reduce feelings of isolation, and lessen the impact of stress.  🍷 Associate Professor Matthew Gullo focuses on the profound impact of substance use, including alcohol and drugs, on men's mental health. Understanding this relationship and seeking help when needed is crucial. Substance use can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, making awareness and intervention vital.  👷♂️ Dr Victoria Ross sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by men in construction and rural areas, where stress and higher suicide risks are prevalent. Providing support and resources to these men is essential. Encouraging open conversations about mental health and sharing resources can make a significant difference. Learn more about our expertise and research contributions on a range of men's health topics, including mental health, substance use, and support for men in various industries provided by Griffith's Centre for Mental Health 👉 https://lnkd.in/g_Rx2vng    #MensHealthWeek #MensMentalHealth #LGBTQMentalHealth #SubstanceUseAwareness #SupportOurWorkers #KnowYourManFacts #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthAwareness

Exploring the complexities of LGBTQI mental health 🌈. This review delves into global policies enhancing support amid discrimination, isolation, and higher risk of mental disorders. Learn more: https://bit.ly/49CaMDg The mental well-being of LGBTQI individuals often faces significant challenges due to societal discrimination, isolation, and minority-related stress. However, a recent review sheds light on the global effort to improve conditions through supportive policies and guidelines. It highlights initiatives and recommendations from various health agencies and LGBTQI alliances focused on mental health, showcasing a growing international commitment to safeguard the mental health rights of the LGBTQI community. This proactive approach is essential for addressing and overcoming the personal and social barriers that impede access to mental health services, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. #OpenScience #KnowmadInstitut #LGBTQIrights

July marks BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, shedding light on the challenges faced by underrepresented groups. Let's come together to break language barriers, challenge stereotypes, and combat discrimination to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for BIPOC youth seeking help. Explore our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion course to understand stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination's impact on youth mental health, and discover unique resources for Indigenous, Black, Muslim, Asian, 2SLGBTQIA+, and newcomer youth in Canada. https://hubs.li/Q02FRTV20 Let's ensure every young person receives the care they deserve. #BIPOCMentalHealth #InclusiveSupport #MentalHealthAwareness

Mental health is for everyone, and it's essential to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by minority communities. Let's break down barriers, promote inclusivity, and ensure everyone has access to the support they need. 🧠💪🏾 Here are some resources dedicated to providing culturally sensitive mental health care for minorities: 📍 Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders through education, practice, and research. 📍 National Black Emotional & Mental Health Collective: (BEAM) “Group of advocates. yoga teachers, artists, therapists, lawyers, religious leaders, teachers, psychologists, and activists dedicated to a world where there are no barriers to black healing”. This organization focuses on the structural and intersectional nature of trauma and harm as well as resilience in Black communities. They offer a directory of Black therapists accessible to the public and emphasize the importance of advocacy for Trans wellness. Inclusive Therapists: This website offers a directory that matches POC with mental health providers that fit criteria regarding race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and cost. Currently serving 20 states as well as parts of Canada. 📍 Asian Human Services Family Health Center: Organization dedicated to providing quality, compassionate, and culturally competent services in over 28 languages to low-income Asian-American and immigrant and refugee communities in metropolitan Chicago. 📍 Sage Community Health Collective: This agency is dedicated to providing trauma-informed, body positive and harm reductionist healing services. Their collective is built around the tenets of mutual respect, actual capacity, deep compassion, and love for each other and our community. 📍 Womencare Counseling and Training Center: Within a relational model, Womencare supports adults, adolescents, couples, families, and communities in the face of trauma, loss, and life transitions to restore life’s meaning and the capacity to form healthy relationships based on mutuality, respect, accountability and caring. [RESOURCES ARE FROM LIFE4ALL] Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. Let's uplift and empower each other on our mental health journeys. 💚 #MentalHealthForAll #MinorityMentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #BreakTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone #life4all #HealthEquity #SharedHarvest #SharedHarvestFoundation #SharedHarvestFund

The future belongs to neurodivergent individuals. Encourage their creativity and value what they contribute. Instead of just checking boxes on a checklist, appreciate their unique qualities. Hiring neurodivergent employees can bring unexpected positivity and productivity to your workplace. #employmentopportunities #neurodivergent #highlyproductive