Many lesbian, gay, bi, queer, trans and intersex (LGBTQIA+) community members live fulfilling and functional lives ❤️💛💚💙💜 However, studies have found that those in the LGBTQIA+ community face up to twice as much abuse or violence (including physical, mental, sexual or emotional) than their heterosexual counterparts. There is a cumulutive affect which increases the risk of mental health issues on top of social, environmental and psychological factors which can lead to an increase in both depression and anxiety.
Despite this, there are options for LGBTQIA+ people as well as supportive communities (such as our forum) who are here to hold space and advocate for non-heterosexual people as they need. Please join myself and our wonderful forum moderator & SANE Help Centre counsellor @Jynx as we discuss issues surrounding mental health and LGBTQIA+. We look forward to hearing all of your insight and coming up with some ideas on how to tackle stigma in the process 
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I'm new here - what is this?
The event runs from 7pm - 8.30pm AEST on the 25th of August. Each month we focus on a different topic, with the session facilitated by a Community Manager or Moderator.
The first post of the thread (this one) will give you an idea of what the topic is and what will be covered.
How do I get involved?
Our text-based event takes place right here! As it is text-based, no software is needed. During the session, to keep up with the latest posts hit the 'refresh' button on your browser for the newest comments (it doesn't automatically update). Keep an eye out for page numbers at the top & bottom of the page, and jump to the highest page number for the most recent post. We recommend using a desktop computer or laptop for the event for overall ease of use .
Throughout the session, the facilitator will post questions for you to answer, usually asking for your own experience on the topic. To contribute to the event, just hit the 'reply' button and share your thoughts. No answers are right or wrong, and everyone is welcome to get involved!
What time does this event start in my timezone?
- AEST- 7pm
- ACDT- 6:30pm
- ACST- 5:30pm
- WST- 4pm
If you have any questions about how to use the Forums, check out our Guides.
Hello all! Welcome to tonight’s LGBTQAI Event! I’m Jynx, you’ve probably seen me around. I’m nonbinary, grey-asexual, and I use they/them pronouns. I’m super passionate about supporting the queer community, especially when it comes to mental health and relationships. I also have ADHD and work with a focus on the intersection of LGBTQAI and disability. When I’m not working, you can find me practicing my contact sword dancing, exploring the wilderness, or playing video games. I also have two pet rats and a succulent collection!
@eth welcome so glad you're here and wow you are an absolute forum GURU 2014 is such an epic stint. Thank you for sharing your story and a little about your child. Love this neutral approach and the notion of allowing a kid to do that exploring for themselves. Thanks @eth 🙂 Can't wait to kick off this chat with you. Thank you for advocating more LGBTQIA+ visibility on the forums too