Because of stigma and discrimination, L.G.B.T.Q+ people are more likely than non-L.G.B.T.Q+ people to struggle with their mental health. Additionally, many standard mental health solutions are often not equipped to understand and tackle unique L.G.B.T.Q+ challenges.
This platform discusses the unique intersection of L.G.B.T.Q+ experiences and mental health. Built by L.G.B.T.Q+ people, for L.G.B.T.Q+ people.
We don’t have all the answers, but we’re hoping this FAQ can provide some insight as to why this conversation is important.
-
Some might be thinking this is an unlikely partnership, which is fair. This isn’t a combination you see promoted often, but we see that as an opportunity to bring the conversation about mental health into spaces that it wasn’t in before.
We seek to meet people where they’re at, and for some, that means we need to meet them at the bar they visit when they’ve had a tough day and don’t know where else to turn for comfort. Some people aren’t as open or comfortable with speaking to a therapist or counselor. Starting the conversation at breweries can be a safe space for some to open up about what might be going on in their lives.
-
Starting the conversation is the first step. To continue that conversation, people can turn to the mental health resources that are printed on the label of the beer or participate in one of Hope for the Day’s mental health education workshops.
One of those resources on the label is the Hope for the Day Resource Compass, a tool used to help find resources and services available in your area. The Resource Compass includes mental health services, general healthcare, food security, housing, and more.
Our education offerings, including The Things We Don’t Say | Parts 1 & 2, are another way to continue the discussion of mental health and self-care. The Things We Don’t Say - Identity & Orientation and Project R.E.D. Team also continues the discussion and focuses on the intersection of specific communities and mental health.
-
Yes! Mental health conversations belong in every industry, community, and space. Everyone has mental health, and some people need more support. By breaking down the stigma around mental health conversations, we can work to make sure that resources are available to those who need them when they need them.
-
In the pursuit to destigmatize mental health, we must acknowledge that ALL stories about mental health challenges are valid and deserving of recognition. Alcohol plays a part in many people’s stories, and to simply ignore that side of one’s struggle would be to ignore part of who they are.
Instead of avoiding these important conversations in the alcohol industry, we should embrace these discussions and maybe even save someone’s life.
-
We support you! We’re glad that you are making the choice that is the best for you and your mental health.
Breweries can also choose to brew a non-alcoholic version of the beer.
This campaign is NOT meant to encourage people to consume alcohol if they choose not to. This campaign is meant to bring the conversation about mental health into breweries and to their customers so they can all have access to mental health resources.
Mental Health Stigma
Not until 1987 did homosexuality completely fall out of the D.S.M as a mental health diagnosis.
“When Homosexuality Stopped Being a Mental Disorder.” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hide-and-seek/201509/when-homosexuality-stopped-being-
mental-disorder.
Resources for the L.G.B.T.Q+ Community
The Trevor Project
National organization
Serving LGBT+ youth
Crisis Lifeline: 866-488-7386
Trans Lifeline
National organization
Open to all ages
Serving the Transgender and Gender
Non-Conforming communities
Crisis Lifeline: 877-565-8860
Center on Halsted
Chicago based organization
Open to all ages
Behavioral Health: 773-472-472-6469
x 460Anti-Violence Project: 773-871-2273 (CARE)
Care2Prevent
South Chicago based organization
Serving Youth
Behavioral Health: 773-702-5872
Brave Space Alliance
South Chicago based organization
Open to all ages
Black and Trans led
Therapy for Queer People of Color
National Organization
Serving Black, Indigenous and people of color
Open to all ages
How To Find A Therapist
Need help finding where to start finding a Therapist?
Click one of the resources below to find resources to help you get started.
CenterLink LGBT Community Center Member Directory
Psychology Today: Find detailed listings for mental health professionals in the US
LGBTQ+ Competency and Care Questions to Ask
This platform discusses the unique intersection of L.G.B.T.Q+ experiences and mental health. Built by L.G.B.T.Q+ people, for L.G.B.T.Q+ people.
This is a transgender, nonbinary, asexual, polyamorous, and kink affirming space.
We’re not here to debate anyone’s identity.
L.G.B.T.Q+ identities are NOT a mental health condition, but the way the world treats us impacts our lives. And that’s what we’re here to talk about.