Growing up LGBTQI+ can be challenging for some. For a lot of us, finding mental health support that actually gets queer stuff (identity, coming out, dysphoria, stigma) is harder than it should be. Want the good news? You’re not alone! Across Scotland, there are people, services and spaces made for LGBTQI+ young people – and Young Scot is here to help you find them.
Where to Turn: Real Help Is Out There
LGBT Youth Scotland
This charity is a major lifeline. They run youth groups across Scotland for 13 to 25-year-olds, where you can hang out, make friends and talk about what’s going on with you. This is done in a safe, non-judgmental space.
They also offer one-to-one support: you can live chat with a youth worker via their website, or email them at info@lgbtyouth.org.uk for a confidential conversation.
Their Information Hub is brilliant too! Check it out for resources on coming out, identity and more.
Mental Health Youth Commission
This is a super project run by LGBT Youth Scotland that brings together LGBTQI+ young people (13–25) to advise on mental health services. They’re working to build better training for mental health professionals and to make sure future support feels relevant for queer young people. If you want to get involved, they’re always on the lookout for people who care about making change happen.
LGBT+ Helpline Scotland
Need to talk right now? Then LGBT Helpline Scotland is here for you.
- 0800 464 7000
- Email: helpline@lgbthealth.org.uk
- Live chat via their website too.
They offer emotional support for everyone under the LGBTQI+ umbrella, plus help for friends, family and even health-care professionals who want to learn more.
Other Organisations…
- Change Mental Health has a section all about LGBTQIA+ mental health and how minority stress affects wellbeing.
- Scottish Trans has lots of useful links, including counselling and emotional support.
What You Can Do Right Now
- If you’re feeling down, overwhelmed or just need to talk… reach out! Live chat or email a youth worker.
- Join a youth group. It’s a space where people understand, where you can be yourself and where you won’t be judged.
- If you’re not ready to open up in person, try writing down how you feel. Even just getting into words helps.
- Explore the information hub and websites above. Sometimes reading about other people’s stories makes you feel less alone.
- And if you ever feel unsafe or in crisis, please reach out for help. Whether through a helpline, a trusted friend or NHS services.
LGBTQI+ mental health is absolutely something worth talking about. Your feelings are real, they’re valid and there is help. Whether you’re questioning your identity or navigating coming out, there are people and organisations ready to walk that journey with you.