Combating the Nationwide LGBTQI+ Youth of Color Mental Health Crisis-View Presentation

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The American Psychiatric Association hosted a roundtable titled "Combating the Nationwide LGBTQIA+ Youth of Color and the Mental Health Crisis," led by Dr. Regina James, aimed at discussing and addressing the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth of color. Dr. Jay Barnett, the 2024 Grand Marshal for the More Equity and Mental Health Initiative, emphasized the importance of mental health equity and honoring advocate B.B. Moore-Campbell.<br /><br />Panelists Dr. Tammy Benton, Dr. Shemeika Dixon, and Dr. Roberta Laguerre-Frederick shared insights on the unique mental health struggles of LGBTQIA+ youth, such as increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide attempts. They highlighted the systemic obstacles faced by youth of color, including cultural and familial pressures, and the political environment's impact on access to care.<br /><br />The discussion stressed the importance of support, both familial and community-based, creating safe spaces, and dismantling the stigma associated with mental health issues. Panelists also discussed the dual role of social media in both supporting and harming young people, advocating for harm reduction and monitoring.<br /><br />They called for increased advocacy, cultural humility among providers, and the need for systemic changes to make services more accessible and supportive. Additionally, they addressed how political actions, such as anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation, negatively affect these communities, reinforcing the need for political and social advocacy to support the mental well-being of affected youth.<br /><br />The event underscored the urgency in addressing these issues as part of broader racial and social justice efforts, with a focus on education, advocacy, and creating inclusive environments for all young people.

Keywords

LGBTQIA+ youth

mental health crisis

youth of color

mental health equity

systemic obstacles

cultural pressures

safe spaces

social media impact

advocacy

cultural humility

anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation

racial justice

inclusive environments