Fabiola Rivas realized she was a lesbian in middle school in 2019.
Rivas, now 18, said she was feeling isolated and lonely, and sought out therapy. The resources available in her hometown of Melbourne, Florida, however, were limited when it came to addressing the questions and concerns that many LGBTQ people face when coming out. Rivas knew of only one mental health facility that provided LGBTQ-specific services, but it was too expensive for her family.
It wasn’t until the Covid pandemic, when Rivas described her mental health as “going downhill” as students were forced to stay home, that her family found an affordable telehealth provider — a psychiatrist in Venezuela, where Rivas’ family is from — and she was able to get the support she needed.
In a recent article published by NBC News, the struggles that LGBTQ+ teenagers often face in accessing mental health care tailored to their needs have been brought to light. The article sheds light on the disparities faced by these young individuals, highlighting the importance of addressing their specific mental health requirements.
According to the report, LGBTQ+ teens confront unique challenges that can impact their mental well-being. Discrimination, bullying, and lack of understanding from both healthcare providers and their peers can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety. Despite the increasing awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, many mental health care providers are still ill-equipped to provide appropriate and sensitive support to this demographic.
The article underscores the critical need for mental health care that is not only accessible but also tailored to the LGBTQ+ community’s needs. A safe and inclusive environment where individuals can express their concerns without judgment is paramount to their recovery and well-being.
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