While Pride Month is a time to celebrate, it is also a time when members of the LGBTQ+ community look at the work that lies ahead. During Pride Month, Sacramento County’s Behavioral Health Services is encouraging LGBTQ+ individuals to focus on mental wellness, self-care, and their overall well-being. With help from community partners and the unwavering support of Sacramento County Behavioral Health, individuals can access comprehensive and culturally competent services. They provide vital resources and empower community members to confront the mental health challenges that disproportionately affect transgender and queer populations. As Sacramento County’s Behavioral Health Department celebrates the triumphs and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, the department also recognizes the importance of mental health support in nurturing a thriving society.
“For Sacramento County Behavioral Health, the behavioral health wellness of our LGBTQ+ brothers, sisters, and siblings remains a priority, and we embrace you all in our communities. We are here for you when you need our support. We celebrate your successes and demonstrations of resiliency.”
Dr. Ryan Quist, the Director of Sacramento County Behavioral Health.
One of several community partners dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ individuals is the Gender Health Center (GHC). Founded in 2010, the GHC stands as a grassroots organization within Sacramento County that aims to address the gaps in care for transgender and queer populations. The GHC’s multifaceted programs are specifically tailored to meet the diverse health needs of the LGBTQ+ community. With an expert staff representing various identities and backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals, the GHC ensures culturally competent care.
At the heart of the GHC’s services lies its mental health counseling, which offers a safe space for individuals to explore their feelings, challenges, and triumphs. Through advocacy services, the GHC assists community members with name and gender changes, healthcare navigation, and support in educational settings. The GHC also provides valuable resources such as surgery letters and harm reduction initiatives, including a syringe exchange program. You can learn more about these programs by following this link to the GHC website.
The Sacramento LGBT Community Center stands as another vital resource for LGBTQ+ individuals in Sacramento County. Their programs, support services, and community engagement opportunities offer additional avenues for individuals to find connection and support. To explore these resources and get involved, visit the Sacramento LGBT Community Center’s website at https://saccenter.org/.
Stop Stigma Sacramento has several resources available for LGBTQ+ individuals who are looking for mental health resources. The website has conversation starters, provides information about breaking the stigma of living with mental illness, and shares empowering stories.
Whether you are an ally, or you identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, there are several ways you can get involved in Sacramento County. If you are looking for ways to celebrate Pride Month, the Sacramento LGBT Community Center has a list of upcoming events which can be found here: https://saccenter.org/upcoming-events/. If you are interested in volunteering with an LGBTQ+ organization, the GHC has opportunities which you can find out about here: https://www.genderhealthcenter.org/job-opportunities.
