Gay youth

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bodyMindSoul

Gay Youth

Gay kids deserve respect.

Gay and lesbian young people face special pressures in our society. They are often misunderstood, persecuted and abused. One result is that the suicide rate for gay kids is thought to be considerably higher than for others. Depression, alcoholism and substance abuse are also potential problems -- a result of the stresses these young people face.

In addition, young people who are gay or wondering if they might be are often isolated from family and friends. That can make the stress that much harder to bear. Lesbian and gay adults often don't know how to mentor younger gay folk, or feel reluctant to do so because of old myths about "recruiting" young people.

If you are young and gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, please remember:

You are a valuable member of society.

No one has the right to abuse you or hurt you.

All people are worthy of respect.

You are not alone.

I don't work with clients under the age of 18 in my practice I am happy to offer the following resources. If you are are gay, lesbian or questioning -- or have a friend or relative who is -- these links may be of interest.

YouthPride is an Atlanta organization for young gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered folks. Even if you aren't in Atlanta, you will find this site full of useful information.

The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network -- working to end bigotry in our schools.

Information related to homosexuality, Christianity and the bible.

A paper on sexual orientation I presented for Lutherans Concerned/North America.

Resources from the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Roundtable of the American Library Association.

Matthew Shepard Foundation for a variety of information on gay youth and opposing hate crimes.

If you have questions or would like to suggest additional resources, please feel free to email me.