LGBTQ+ Youth

LGBTQ+ Youth

Ryleigh shares the importance of mental health and affirming spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

I've been thinking about hurting myself. What should I do?

If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk, call the TrevorLifeline now at 1-866-488-7386. The trained counselors of The Trevor Project are there to support you 24/7.

I'm looking for an affirming community.

Being true to yourself can be a very lonely experience if you don't have a supportive, affirming community to share it with. Below are a few community groups that offer support groups or community-building spaces. Please look into their current COVID policies.

  • MOZAIC: Mozaic is a wellness program and community space for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people.
  • Kaleidoscope Youth Center (KYC): This intentional, expressive community is youth-led. Meaning everything you'll find at Kaleidoscope is designed for, and by young people like you. Their diverse, experienced staff work alongside queer youth to create free programming, housing, and support services here in Columbus, and all over the state of Ohio.
    • QPOC is an affinity space for queer and trans youth of color, ages 12-20. Message @KYCohio on Instagram for a Zoom link or sign-up filling out the form
    • Genderscope: If you're trans, non-binary, gender variant, genderqueer, gender questioning, or any other non-cis identity, this space is just for you! Build new friendships as you share in experience and discuss topics related to gender identity and expression. For ages 12-20. Message @KYCohio on Instagram for a Zoom link or sign-up by filling out the form.
    • KYC Discord Server: general chat space for LGBTQ+ youth 12-20. Sign-up by filling out the form or messaging their Instagram @KYCohio 
    • Check out Kaleidoscope's Speaking Queerly podcast which examines pop culture, news, politics, and other topics that affect the LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults.
  • OCTOPUS LLC: Nonbinary Peer Support Groups (event pages via Facebook)

LGBTQ-mmunity
Check out our LGBTQ community page to hear other messages of solitary and to share your own experience.

Read others' stories and share your own on Coming Out.

What if my parents don't understand? How do I come out to them?

Coming out is a very personal, unique experience. No two stories are the same. It's important to come out on your own terms and take care of yourself in the process. We highly encourage you to check out the resources below to help you prepare.

What if I don't feel safe in my home?

If you've experienced verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, we encourage you to reach out to our friends at BRAVO for support.

My caregiver kicked me out and I don't know what do.

If you are experiencing homelessness and between the ages of 14-24, contact our friends at Star House to learn about their drop-in center for youth.

If you are between the ages of 18 and 24, Kaleidoscope Youth Center's housing programs provide supportive housing for young people experiencing homelessness or unsafe housing.

What if I need help and don't know how to ask?/My adult doesn't support me asking for help.

Mental health affects everyone, across all walks of life, but due to discrimination, mental health challenges are more likely to affect LGBTQ individuals. This can show up in many ways like depression, anxiety or suicidal ideation. Finding a supportive, affirming adult in your life can be a key factor in leading a healthy, fulfilling life. This person can be anyone from a friend or family member, to a neighbor or teacher. They can help you find the support you need, mental health or otherwise. If you do not have a supportive adult, below are some helpful resources to find support.

I'm getting bullied at school. How do I make my school more affirming and inclusive?
I'm sexually active and don't know who to talk to or ask questions.

Inclusive sexual education is unfortunately lacking in many school systems. It's important to have an affirming space to ask questions relevant to your identity and experience to stay healthy and safe. If you have questions, we encourage you to check out some of the Health Resources below and, if you feel safe doing so, reach out to a supportive adult in your life. 

Asexual Resources

Trans Youth Resources

Spiritual and Religious Resources

Health Resources

Legal Support

COVID19 Resources