Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. 

Given the importance of our mental health, it is critical that the LGBTQ+ community experience a sense of safety, contentment, and deep connection with ourselves and with others. Sadly, LGBTQ+ individuals are disproportionately impacted by mental health difficulties. They are 2.5 times more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance use compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Reasons for this are complex and include stigma, discrimination, and social isolation.  

People who identify as transgender are even more at risk for experiencing mental health problems and are twice as likely to experience threats of physical or sexual harassment or violence compared with the LGBTQ+ community as a whole. Experiencing a hate crime increases the risk of mental health issues.

LGBTQ+ youth and older adults are also at higher risk of experiencing mental health problems and are more likely to use substances to cope with their difficulties. Heavy drinking and drug use can make existing mental health problems worse and potentially trigger new ones.

The connection between our mental health and our physical health are well recognized. The two are fundamentally linked. People living with serious mental health problems are at higher risk of experiencing a wide range of chronic physical conditions, including but not limited to HIV, cancer, diabetes and hypertension. 

Given the heightened threats to our mental health, Equality Mental Health recognizes the importance of access and availability to mental health services. We have various clinicians who provide individual, couple, and family therapy, as well as support groups. We are also invested in improving awareness—about mental health, therapy, LGBTQ+ services, groups, etc.

Our office is located at 852 Kinderkamack Rd Teaneck, NJ, 07661. We offer in-person, virtual, and phone appointments. Schedule an appointment by calling or visiting our website: equalitymentalhealth.com

Equality Mental Health is here for you. No one needs to suffer alone.