Pride Month is a time of joy, visibility, and celebration for LGBTQ+ individuals and communities, but it is also a time to recognize the very real mental health challenges many continue to face. While colorful pride parades and affirming messages light up the month of June, many people still navigate the experiences of stigma, rejection, isolation and so much more. Acknowledging these issues alongside the power of resilience is essential to building a more supportive and inclusive community for everyone.
Mental health disparities in LGBTQ+ populations are well documented. Higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal thoughts often stem from social stigma, discrimination and microaggressions that may be encountered in a person’s daily life. For some, growing up in environments that lacked acceptance or were actively hostile can leave lasting emotional trauma. Even in adulthood, navigating systems that don’t reflect or affirm LGBTQ+ identities can be exhausting.
Even with the challenges individuals face, there is still a great amount of strength and support. Many LGBTQ+ individuals find healing and empowerment through chosen family, supportive communities, and deeper connection to themselves. Pride is not just a celebration of identity, but it is also a celebration of support and resilience. Stories of self-acceptance, love and growth often come from places of adversity. From young people finding safe spaces at school clubs, to older adults reclaiming their voice after years of silence, affirmation can be lifesaving and life changing.
Allyship plays a huge role in nurturing mental wellness. For those who support LQBTQ+ friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors, showing up matters. This includes being mindful and inclusive of language, respecting names and pronouns, challenging anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and advocating for mental health care that affirms identity. True allyship is active, not passive. It’s about listening, learning and taking action.
In Alexandria, local resources are available to support LGBTQ+ residents during Pride and all year long. This year marks the 8th annual Alexandria Pride Fair, held June 28 from 3-6 P.M. at 301 King St, hosted by the LGBTQ+ Task Force together with DCHS, Alexandria Library, and community partners. The fair featured live music, drag story hours, art workshops, confidential health screenings, and booths offering inclusive serves to over 75 organizations. Last year, the City debuted rainbow crosswalks at Royal & King Streets and unveiled DASH’s first ever Pride-wrapped bus under the “free to love, free to ride” theme, announcing Alexandria’s public transit as a moving symbol of inclusivity.
Beyond celebrations, access to support is key. June and all year around, individuals in crisis can dial 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides affirming care for LGBTQ+ youth. Alexandria DCHS offers ongoing resources including mental health screenings, community support services, training for inclusive care, a support group for parents of LGBTQ+ youth, and connection to the LGBTQ+ Task Force where allies and LGBTQ+ community members work side by side.
This Pride month let’s celebrate both the joy and the journey. By showing up for one another, setting inclusive standards, and accessing affirming care when needed, we honor the power of pride and support one another’s healing. After all, community is at the heart of wellness and everyone deserves to thrive as their authentic self.
