LGBT+ History Month is an annual observance every February to commemorate the history and progress made in the struggle for LGBTIQ+ rights.
The month is a chance to remember important historical events, such as the 1967 decriminalisation of homosexuality between men, the first London Pride march in 1972, the Civil Partnership Act 2004, the Gender Recognition Act 2004, the Marriage (same sex couples) Act 2013 and more.
Importantly, LGBT+ History month also coincides with the annual remembrance of the abolition of Section 28 in 2003. Section 28 was a piece of legislature introduced in 1988 that prohibited the 'promotion of homosexuality' by local authorities. Criticised and opposed by many rights groups, charities, celebrities and political organisations, its abolition was and is celebrated as a positive step forward in the fight for LGBTIQ+ rights.
Though the struggle for LGBTIQ+ rights has come a long way and made a lot of progress, the fight for rights and acceptance isn't over. Many LGBTIQ+ communities still face stigma, discrimination and even abuse.
Anyone can experience a mental health problem, but those who identify as LGBTIQ+ are statistically more likely to develop a mental health issue, such as anxiety, depression or an eating disorder.
The increased likeliness of an LGBTIQ+ person facing a mental health issue can be down to a number of reasons, such as increased risk of being exposed to and having to deal with:
- Stigma and discrimination
- Social isolation, rejection and exclusion
- Difficulties coming out and being open about their identity and/or sexuality.
At West Sussex Mind, we recognise that further work is needed to ensure that LGBTIQ+ people are heard and supported.