How to find peer support

Support from people who understand matters. The Trevor Project found that LGBTQ+ young people in very accepting communities attempted suicide at less than half the rate of those in very unaccepting communities. Community isn't a nice extra. It's protective.

“LGBTQ community centers are vital to the mental health of this community.”

LGBTQ+ community centers

Hundreds of LGBTQ+ centers across the country offer support groups, social events, and lists of affirming local providers. CenterLink, the network of LGBTQ+ centers, keeps a directory where you can find one near you. Researchers at the Yale School of Public Health have found that these centers play a key role in delivering mental health support, often on small budgets.

Free peer support lines

Online communities

Online groups can be especially helpful if you live somewhere without a local center. The Trevor Project runs TrevorSpace, a moderated online community for LGBTQ+ young people ages 13 to 24.

For families and allies

PFLAG has local chapters across the country where parents, family members, and allies of LGBTQ+ people meet for support.

Making it work for you

• Try more than one. Groups have different feels. It's okay to keep looking.
• Start small. You can listen at a meeting without sharing anything.
• Share what you learn. Telling others about good providers helps the next person.