JUNE is Pride month, a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s rich tapestry of identities. It’s a time to acknowledge the strides made towards equality and inclusion.

So, what’s that got to do with a mental health and well-being column? You may ask. Well, for starters, it’s a fact that people from the LGBTQ+ community are statistically more likely to be affected by poor mental health. The same can also be said for people from any marginalised group in society.

For many, Pride can also be a stark reminder of the challenges they’ve faced. Bullying and marginalisation, particularly during childhood and adolescence, are sadly common experiences - not just for LGBTQ+ individuals, but for anyone who falls outside the perceived norm. These experiences can have a profound and long-lasting impact on mental well-being, a reality that transcends specific identities.

The wounds inflicted by bullying can run deep. Repeated taunts, social exclusion, and the constant feeling of being different can chip away at self-esteem, leaving scars that linger well into adulthood. These experiences can shape our inner narrative, the voice in our heads that whispers doubts and insecurities. When faced with stress or challenges later in life, those negative voices can resurface, echoing the negativity of past tormentors.

This phenomenon isn’t limited to the LGBTQ+ community. Anyone who has been bullied or ‘othered’ for their race, religion, socioeconomic background, or any other factor can find themselves haunted by those experiences. The constant feeling of ‘otherness’ creates a sense of isolation and can lead to anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. This type of negative thinking can be difficult to stop. This can add to the stress, and before we know it, we can be in a vicious cycle of negative thinking.

Interestingly, in terms of people who identify as LGBTQ+, the age groups most affected by mental health issues are those under 35 or those over 55. This could be because those under 35 have recently gone through issues regarding self-acceptance of their differences, and all that goes with it. For people who are 55-plus, many of them lived through the 1980s, and the terrible stigma and prejudice that was aimed, particularly at gay men, during the early years of HIV/AIDS. Many people from that age group will remember losing friends, and all the terrible fears and hatred that was bandied around by the press during that time.

The good news is, people don’t have to be prisoners of their past. We have the ability to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

* Breaking the Cycle: Reclaiming Your Voice

The first step is recognising the source of negative self-talk. When faced with self-doubt, ask yourself: “Whose voice is this, really?” Often, it’s the echo of a bully from long ago. Challenge those thoughts with reason and self-compassion. You are worthy and deserving of love and respect.

* Embrace Your Identity: Pride month can be a catalyst for self-acceptance. Celebrate what makes you unique, whether it’s your sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, or anything else. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who affirm your identity.

* Seek Help: If the past weighs heavily on you, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can equip you with tools to manage negative thoughts and build a more positive self-image. Remember you can self-refer to Bradford District Talking Therapies. Call (01274) 221234.

* The Power of Community: A critical step towards creating a more mentally healthy community lies in fostering a strong sense of community cohesion. This means appreciating and celebrating our differences. In Bradford, we have a rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Embracing this diversity strengthens our communities and creates a sense of belonging for everyone.

Here’s why community cohesion is so beneficial for mental well-being:

* Reduced Social Isolation: Belonging to a group that accepts and values you can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, both of which are major risk factors for depression and anxiety.

* Increased Support: When we build bridges across communities, we create a network of support. Knowing there are people who understand, and care allows us to feel safe and validated.

* Positive Role Models: Seeing others from similar backgrounds thrive can be incredibly empowering.

* Challenging Prejudice: As communities come together, understanding and acceptance grow, leading to a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

Food for thought, as to why Pride Month is so important, in terms of mental health.

* If you're in a mental health crisis or emergency and may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others contact your GP, go to A&E, call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258

Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various modalities and an Instructor Member of Mental Health First Aid England wellbeing@martinfurber.com