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 email address here: https://account.v2.togetherall.com/join/clacfz00d1289967f4r4zklqwlkw
