Written by: Erika Nelson, MA, LPCC

June is Pride Month, which is a month-long observance dedicated to the celebration of LGBTQ pride, commemorating the contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer culture and community. For parents, caregivers, and allies, this is a great time to check in with how you are supporting LGBTQ+ youth in your life, and take actions that will last throughout the year. 

Many LGBTQ+ youth face higher levels of harassment and discrimination related to their sexual orientation or gender identity (The Trevor Project’s 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People). These challenges are often compounded by a lack of support from parents, schools, and broader society. As a result, many LGBTQ+ teens experience increased rates and severity of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. While these findings are deeply concerning, there are meaningful ways you can step in to offer support and help foster safer, more affirming environments.

Affirming & Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth

One of the most impactful ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth is by affirming and trusting that they understand their own identity. It’s natural for this to feel unfamiliar or even challenging, especially when you’re first learning about a young person’s evolving gender identity or sexuality. However, it’s important to remember that most individuals spend months—or even years—reflecting on these aspects of themselves before sharing them with others. Here are a few affirming phrases you can use or adapt in your own words:

“I love you, thank you for trusting me with that part of your life.”

“No matter what, you are valid and you belong.”

“I’m looking forward to getting to know this part of you better.”

“I am proud of you for being your true self.”

LGBTQ+ youth often share that a meaningful way to show support is by taking the initiative to learn about LGBTQ+ identities—through both personal research and thoughtful questions. While it’s okay to ask questions, it’s important to remember that LGBTQ+ individuals have diverse experiences and shouldn’t be expected to serve as your sole source of information. Relying on them to educate others can feel overwhelming or isolating. Fortunately, there are many trusted organizations that offer educational resources for parents, caregivers, and allies including:

The Trevor Project 

PFLAG

Human Rights Campaign

The Family Acceptance Project

As a parent of a LGBTQ+ youth, you can support their gender identity by respecting their chosen name and pronouns, helping them find clothing they feel comfortable in, and supporting hairstyles that reflect their authentic selves. Support also means understanding that there may be situations where they don’t feel safe or ready to use their preferred name or pronouns. It’s important to honor their decisions about when and with whom to share this part of their identity. LGBTQ+ youth are capable of advocating for their own safety and well-being and should be trusted to guide that process.

Parents and caregivers can also support LGBTQ+ youth by encouraging them to connect with people and spaces they can fully be themselves around, providing a sense of community. This can be through supportive friend groups, online or in-person gaming communities, group therapy, or other affirming social spaces. Check out our LGBTQIA+ Group Therapy Offering!

As a parent or caregiver of an LGBTQ+ youth, your emotions are valid, too. If you’re finding it challenging to process new information about your child’s identity, consider seeking support through individual therapy or a support group. These spaces can help you explore your feelings, work through fears or uncertainties, and learn how to offer support in a thoughtful and affirming way.

With ongoing challenges to the well-being and safety of the LGBTQ+ community, it is crucial to find ways to support those you care about within the community.