LGBTQ+ Issues

Red Willow Counseling and Recovery is committed to making our office a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals. We want our therapists to be able to best help you and make our office a safe place to unwind, work on your mental health, and improve your happiness. Therapy is one of the only ways to help navigate complex emotions in a healthy way. Navigating a complex world is made easier with our therapists at Red Willow Counseling and Recovery. 

Issues That LGBTQIA People Face

Coming out can be a source of stress for LGBTQ+ individuals. Other sources of stress could be dating, navigating changes during puberty, depression over lack of support, or severe bullying. All of these issues can make it hard to function as a teen or in a workplace when there is a constant fear. 

Some other issues that regard gender or sexual orientation can include:

• Self-harm
• Suicidal thoughts
• Learning about their sexual desires
• Religious oppression
• Bullying
• Lack of quality time with family and friends
• Discrimination
• Victimization
• Dating challenges
• Surgery and recovery
• Anger over being a gender they don’t identify with
• Sadness over the loss of family and friend relationships

Physical Health Considerations

While taking care of your mental health is important, taking care of your physical health is also important for living a comfortable life. LGBTQ+ individuals may also experience physical health discrimination or be denied some procedures or health care because of their gender identity. This can lead to major illness or other health problems that could worsen their mental health as well. 

Because of the lack of knowledge of LGBTQ+ issues, individuals may avoid going to the doctor, seeking treatment, or talking about their health concerns. This can lead to the progression of health risks or mental health deterioration. Those who are LGBTQ+ and people of color experience discrimination on both sides and find it even harder to find health help. Especially women and trans women. 

Because of the mental strain and toll that discrimination takes on them, some LGBTQ+ individuals may turn to substances to cope. Some may experience eating disorders, use addictive substances or alcohol, or smoke cigarettes, which can negatively impact their physical health. When physical health is not in check, it is more difficult to improve mental health. 

How Therapy With Red Willow Can Help

Red Willow Counseling and Recovery wants to help individuals create a life of intention. When you work with one of our many therapists, you will get understanding, skillful therapy, and coping skills to create a balanced life. 

Because every person is unique, we have multiple therapists for you to choose from until you find one that works best for your needs. Each LGBTQ+ individual has their own set of challenges and has had a unique journey. Our team works to understand that and help you accomplish your individual goals. Red Willow Counseling and Recovery offers therapy and mental health resources to ALL in the Salt Lake City area.