About Us → News & Events How to support LGBTQ+ students this year

Earlier this year, the CDC released new data highlighting the mental health crisis among youth in the United States. While research suggests mental health among some has decreased, reports underscore the significant disparities, particularly among female and LGBTQ+ students. In 2023, 4 in 10 high school students experienced feelings of sadness or hopelessness with 2 in 10 seriously considered attempting suicide and almost 1 in 10 students attempted suicide.

As kids around the country return to the classroom, many LGBTQ+ youth will have more than just the first day jitters. For many children, the thought of going back to school is a source of extreme anxiety and depression. According to The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ and transgender youth experience more bullying and violence, and as a result of stigmatization and discrimination, are more likely to experience depression and other mental health challenges than their peers. Young people spend so much of their time in school, understanding how best to provide a safe space for all students is vital for school administrators and educators. 

Schools and organizations like Health Care Advocates International can play an important role in reversing these life-changing moments. Children deserve to learn in a space where they feel safe and respected. Below are a few ways to provide a safe and accepting environment for all students this year.

Create space for pronouns

• Encourage and normalize sharing pronouns

• Use gender-inclusive language in all settings

Be an active ally

• Establish or support a Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA)

• Visually affirm your support (e.g., display Pride flags, inclusive posters)

• Enforce clear anti-bullying and harassment policies

Foster an inclusive school environment

• Incorporate LGBTQ+ topics and perspectives in the curriculum

• Ensure the library offers a diverse range of LGBTQ+ literature

• Support gender-affirming dress codes

• Provide access to gender-neutral bathrooms

Listen and learn from students

• Actively listen and respond to student voices

• Seek ongoing education and training when needed

  
  

Health Care Advocates International is committed to supporting Connecticut’s youth. Under HCAI’s Youth & Family program, LGBTQ+ children and their families can find comfort and community through a wide range of programming dedicated specifically for youth, parents, caregivers and even educators. HCAI’s Youth & Family Program offers a variety of support groups including meditation, mindfulness and other resources. Over the last five years, HCAI’s Y&F Director Tony Ferraiolo has implemented a statewide training program for administrators, educators and staff, diversity group meet-and-greets with Gay Straight Alliances throughout Connecticut and even started a Binder program for youth across the nation -- an initiative to supply special clothing for the upper torso that gives accessible, comfortable and gender affirming chest binding to those in need in order to reduce gender dysphoria.

Schools, teachers, friends and loved ones should want to provide an environment that encourages learning, and a space filled with kindness, but most of all, one that is safe. Tony and the team at HCAI are dedicated to serving the LGBTQ community and are steadfast in their mission to help fight stigma and discrimination for all individuals. Now more than ever, students need a strong support system to help them through. Sometimes, friends and family and even educators don’t know where to start, and the Youth & Family Program is here to help you find your way. If you or someone you know is struggling, do not hesitate to reach out to HCAI’s Youth & Family Director tonyferraiolo@hcaillc.com. A full list of HCAI’s programs and initiatives can be found on the Youth & Family webpage.