Taking Care of LGBTQIA Mental Health During Lockdown

LGBTQIA Mental Health During Lockdown

The lockdown is hard on everyone. As folks around the world adjust to the new realities of life under quarantine, there are members of the LGBTQIA community who are being forced to spend time and share space with family members or others who do not affirm their identities. Below is a list of a few points of why this period is more challenging for the community :

1. Those belonging to the LGBTQIA community usually experience stigma and discrimination, both within families and society.
2. The social distancing and isolation are forcing some from LGBTQIA to stay away from their families of choice and their communities, which is bound to be stressful. 
3. Being in unwelcoming or hostile environments must be preventing them from behaving/ dressing the way they relate to and this restriction of self-expression is usually distressing.
4. They often face domestic violence and abuse within their families of origin.
5. The economic impact of the pandemic will hit them too. They may become economically vulnerable with loss of jobs and pay-cuts affecting all.
6. The apathy of the system towards the community also affects their access to relief work and health care.

We have tried to list a few points that can be helpful for their mental health during this time :

Be in virtual touch with friends, allies, and community–

While social distancing should only mean physical distancing, often being away from friends and allies can make us isolate ourselves even more. Take out time every day to connect with your community or close friends to share your feeling and maintain a warm, loving relationship.

Be aware of your surroundings–

If you are from the LGBTQIA community living with someone who doesn’t affirm or align with your preferences, it can be difficult to contain feelings of anger or distress. However, be cautious in expressing yourself if you fear that the situation might escalate and if there is a possibility of abuse. Do so only an insecure environment.

Equip yourself–

Use this time to understand yourself and your environment. Work towards collecting resources on how you can make your environment more favorable. Educate yourself about your rights and legal help and policy frameworks active in your society for your community. This will allow you to understand your challenges better and prepare better for the future.

Use social media–

To further a sense of belongingness and bonding, it might be a good idea to connect with online groups that align with your preferences.

Take time to disconnect–

Take a few hours time off from social media, news, and connecting with others to pay attention to your feelings and needs.

Have a flexible routine–

Try to adhere to a routine especially in terms of sleeping, eating, and exercising. Allow enough flexibility to accommodate daily requirements or fresh commitments.

Be kind to yourself- Practise self-compassion when you are feeling low or unproductive. Allow enough time for rest and relaxation.

It’s okay to seek help–

If you are feeling distressed and are having difficulty with your mental health and well-being persistently, consider reaching out for professional help.

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