We know that being LGBTQ+ isn’t a mental health problem; Being LGBTQ+ can be a source of pride and can bring important relationships and a sense of community into people’s lives.
At the same time, discrimination, homophobia, and transphobia against LGBTQ+ people, as well as social isolation, can have a negative effect on their mental health. Mental health problems including depression, self-harm, alcohol and drug abuse, and suicidal thoughts are more common among people who are LGBTQ+.
At Confetti we are proud to support our LGBTQ+ students to feel part of a community here on campus. Confetti hosts regular LGBTQ+ socials throughout the academic year for students to engage and contribute towards. If you’d like to get involved in future events, you are welcome to contact LGBTQPLUS@confetti.ac.uk – we’d love to hear your ideas. Support is also available regarding mental health which can be accessed via our Student Services Team, you can self-refer here: https://confetti.ac.uk/sstreferral/
Pride is important for mental health because it helps LGBTQ+ people secure equal rights, which is crucial for their wellbeing. Pride also helps people celebrate the best bits of being LGBTQ+, including community, acceptance, belonging, and joy!
Nottingham is hosting its very own pride march on Saturday 29 July 2023. This year’s event has the theme of ‘Together’, with a focus on being present, celebrating LGBTQ+ history, and marching for the future and we’re excited for the Nottinghamshire community to come out for a good time all in the name of unity.
More information regarding this event can be found here https://nottspride.co.uk/
The Student Services Team are available Monday to Friday 8:30-5:00pm (excluding bank holiday’s). If you or someone you know feels at risk outside of these hours please contact your GP during their normal working hours, present at your local A&E department or dial, 999.
If you just need someone to talk to, the following listening services are available, nationwide:
⦁ Samaritans- Call 116 123
⦁ Shout Crisis Text Line- Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 or Text ‘YM’, if you’re under 19 years old
⦁ Childline- Call 0800 1111 (between the hours of 7:30am-3:30am)
For general support or that surrounding mental health, please visit the below websites:
- https://www.nottslgbt.com/how-we-can-help/
- https://www.lgbtplusnotts.org.uk/
- https://www.derbyshirelgbt.org.uk/
- https://www.consortium.lgbt/member-directory/leicester-lgbt-centre/
- https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/lgbtqia-mental-health/about-lgbtqia-mental-health/
- https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/advice-for-life-situations-and-events/mental-health-support-if-you-are-gay-lesbian-bisexual-lgbtq/
- https://www.themix.org.uk/sex-and-relationships/gender-and-sexuality
As a Confetti student, you also have access Togetherall. Togetherall is an online platform to support your wellbeing. Please visit our landing page and sign up using your Confetti or NTU email address here: https://account.v2.togetherall.com/join/clacfz00d1289967f4r4zklqwlkw
