Every day, more than 300,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) Coloradans navigate a world in which stigma, discrimination, and fear of harassment or violence are all too common. Many lose the love and support of family members, friends, and deep connections to communities where they live and work because of their LGBTQ+ identity. Coming out is often met with emotionally devastating impacts. Living fully and safely while embracing our identity should be a reality for all LGBTQ+ people. Yet LGBTQ+ individuals experience pervasive trauma and stress that has serious consequences for mental health and well-being.

 

LGBTQ+ individuals have been historically underserved, and are too often traumatized by environments and systems that should be sources of support. These experiences are additionally compounded by intersecting identities. We know there is a great need for specific, affirming and culturally relevant outreach, support and behavioral health services for LGTBQ+ people. Envision:You understands the urgency and invites you to partner with us. Together we can eliminate behavioral health disparities for the LGBTQ+ community.

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According to the World Health Organization: 

• As many as 450 million people worldwide suffer from a mental or behavioral or substance use disorder.

• Nearly 1 million people die by suicide every year.

• Four of the six leading causes of years lived with disability are due to neuropsychiatric disorders (depression, alcohol-use disorders, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder).

• One in four families has at least one member with a mental disorder. Family members are often the primary caregivers of people with mental disorders. The extent of the burden of mental disorders on family members is difficult to assess and quantify and is consequently often ignored. However, it does have a significant impact on the family’s quality of life.

• In addition to the health and social costs, those suffering from mental illnesses are also victims of human rights violations, stigma and discrimination, both inside and outside psychiatric institutions and correctional facilities.

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