Transgender Support UK: LGBTQ+ Mental Health Help

Everyone deserves to live openly, safely and well as themselves. If you are transgender, non-binary or part of the wider LGBTQ+ community and you are struggling, there is understanding, affirming support out there — and reaching for it is a sign of strength.

What is gender dysphoria?

Gender dysphoria (GD) is a feeling of discomfort or distress that can occur when a person's gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth, or from sex-related physical characteristics. Transgender and gender-diverse people may experience GD at some point in their lives, but not all do — and not everyone who experiences GD identifies as transgender.



GD is not a mental illness. But left unsupported, it can lead to mental health problems, which is why finding the right help matters.

Understanding transgender and non-binary identities

A transgender person is someone whose gender identity — their internal sense of being male, female or something else — does not match the sex they were assigned at birth. Many trans people live according to their gender identity in how they present themselves to the world.



Some undergo medical treatments, such as hormone therapy, surgery or voice therapy, to feel more at home in their bodies. These social, physical and legal changes are known as transitioning. People who are non-binary do not consider themselves to have a solely male or female gender identity, or take a different approach to gender altogether.

Where can I find LGBTQ+ mental health support?

These organisations may be able to help if you, or someone you know, needs support:

• Mermaids — supports transgender, non-binary and gender-exploring children, young people and their families, with a helpline plus web and text chat support.
• Stonewall — information, support and guidance on LGBTQ+ inclusion.
• The Beaumont Society — the largest and longest-established transgender support group in the UK, offering help, advice, information and online support groups.
• The Brunswick Centre — has promoted mental health and suicide prevention within LGBTQ+ communities for more than 30 years.
• LGBT Foundation — a wide range of resources, information and services, including support groups, helplines and counselling.
• Mindline Trans+ — an emotional and mental health support helpline for anyone identifying as transgender, non-binary or genderfluid, plus support for family and friends.
• MindOut — a mental health service run by and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer people, making mental health a community concern.
• Terrence Higgins Trust — information on clinics and resources for trans and non-binary people.
• TransUnite — helps you find a transgender support group near you.
• Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide — runs an online peer-support group for members of the LGBTQ+ community who have been bereaved by suicide.
  

Small steps, real hope

Stigma and discrimination can make life harder than it should be, but you are never alone, and things can get better with the right support. You can contact The Jordan Legacy at hello@thejordanlegacy.com — and if you are struggling to cope, please visit I Need Help Now.