With each passing year, Pride Month in Howard County grows in significance, serving as both a celebration of LGBTQ+ identity and a platform to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by community members.
Recognizing the importance of mental health within the LGBTQ+ community, WJZ recently spoke with a mental health professional to shed light on ongoing efforts in Howard County to address these issues.
The county initiated a tradition last year of raising the pride flag at a government building, symbolizing its commitment to inclusivity. Additionally, Howard County Pride has organized numerous events aimed at fostering a sense of community and support.
Alisha Tronetti, CEO of Howard County Pride, reflects on the impact such initiatives would have had on her younger self, emphasizing the need for love, support, and freedom to explore one’s identity, particularly during adolescence.
Amidst the backdrop of legislative challenges and societal stigma, mental health struggles among LGBTQ+ youth remain prevalent. The Trevor Project’s annual survey highlights the negative impact of recent politics, with a staggering 90% of respondents reporting adverse effects and 12% attempting suicide.
Kyle Kunkel, a licensed clinical professional counselor, underscores the unique stressors faced by the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the burden of advocating for one’s identity and the barriers to accessing mental health care.
Despite the high demand for mental health services, half of those in need are unable to access care, according to The Trevor Project’s findings. Kunkel recommends leveraging personal networks for support, emphasizing the importance of solidarity within the community.
Howard County Pride endeavors to provide visibility and community for LGBTQ+ individuals, creating spaces for open dialogue and mutual support. Tronetti emphasizes the significance of these efforts in fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity, ensuring that no individual feels alone in their journey.
Through initiatives like raising the pride flag and organizing community events, Howard County is taking meaningful steps to elevate mental health support for its LGBTQ+ population, affirming its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.
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