Family acceptance is vital to the mental health of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Family acceptance is associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Conversely, rejection can lead to severe mental health challenges, including increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Below is a list of resources from our experts for caregivers seeking help creating an affirming environment for children with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (SOGIE).

Understanding my LGBTQ Youth:

Family Acceptance Project
Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD)
Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN)
Gay-Straight Alliance Network
Human Rights Campaign
Intersex Society of North America (ISNA)
Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund
My Kid Is Gay: Helping Families Understand Their LGBTQ Kids
National Center for Lesbian Rights
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
PFLAG Family Content
“This Is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids: A Question & Answer Guide to Everyday Life” by Dannielle Owens-Reid

Addressing Religious Concerns

FreedHearts
My Kid Is Gay: Religion
PFLAG Faith In Our Families

Supporting my LGBTQ Youth

Bisexual Resource Center
It Gets Better Project
Lavender Youth Recreation and Information Center (LYRIC)
The National Youth Advocacy Coalition (NYAC)
Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL)
The Trevor Project
Video: Why I chose my LGBTQ daughter over the Evangelical Church – Susan Cottrell
Video: 4 Tips for Coming Out to Your Parents

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