Creating Safe Spaces: Supporting LGBTQIA+ Youth in Education, Healthcare and Public Services

Why This Conversation Matters

LGBTQIA+ youth often look to educators and other trusted adults as their first line of support when they feel unsafe or isolated. These trusted adults are essential in creating spaces where young people feel seen, valued and protected. But as hostile legislation and policy rollbacks gain momentum, that work has become more challenging—and more crucial—than ever.

• Mental Health Crisis: Ninety percentof LGBTQIA+ youth report that recent politics negatively affect their well-being. Anti-transgender laws led to a 72 percent increase in suicide attempts among transgender and nonbinary youth from 2018 to 2022, according to The Trevor Project, a nonprofit suicide prevention organization that provides 24/7 crisis support services, research and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ young people.
• Policy Setbacks: Rollbacks to Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act weakened protections against discrimination in healthcare. Cuts to HIV/AIDS research and the removal of LGBTQIA+-specific options from the 988 suicide hotline have further eroded support systems, per The Trevor Project.
• Legislative Hostility: Over 600 anti-LGBTQIA+ bills have been introduced in 2025, creating fear and uncertainty that discourage individuals from seeking care or participating fully in public life, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.

An impending mental health crisis among LGBTQIA+ youth—evident in rising suicide rates and compounded by a hostile political climate—demands both recognition of its impact and urgent action to provide meaningful support. “These [anti-LGBTQIA+] laws are causing direct harm, but it’s also the knock-on effect—the fear,” Pick said. “Much of the advice I would typically offer on how doctors or teachers can provide safe, accepting environments is harder to act on because people are afraid.” 

Practical Steps for Providing Mental Health Support to LGBTQIA+ Youth

Even in challenging environments, small actions can make a big difference, Pick explained. For instance, fostering belonging and signaling safety are essential steps to protect LGBTQIA+ youth. Educators and parents can start with everyday practices that show acceptance and support like:

Signal Safety and Support

• Display visual cues like pride flags or “This is a safe space” stickers.
• Include pronouns in email signatures.
• Use inclusive language in classrooms and curricula.

Implement Inclusive Policies

• Adopt anti-bullying policies that explicitly protect sexual orientation and gender identity.
• Ensure intake forms and school documents allow for self-identification.

Build Community

• Create Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs).
• Connect with local advocacy groups and state equality organizations.
• Foster networks through unions and educator associations to prevent isolation.

Beyond these structural steps, promoting mental health and well-being is equally critical. Belonging is the foundation of resilience, according to The Trevor Project. LGBTQIA+ youth say they feel safest and most affirmed when adults:

• Respect their pronouns and chosen names;
• Stand up for them in moments of discrimination;
• Show tangible support—through words, actions and visible symbols; and
• Listen with empathy and ask questions to learn.

These actions, both policy-driven and personal, create environments where LGBTQIA+ individuals feel seen, valued and supported, even in the face of legislative hostility. Silence is never the answer when a crisis arises. Proactive care means sharing resources like The Trevor Project’s 24/7 support hotline and the 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline, as well as fostering open conversations about mental health. These dialogues, paired with visible support and accessible resources, can save lives and strengthen the sense of belonging that every young person deserves.

Addressing Hostile Rhetoric

Anti-LGBTQIA+ hate speech and rhetoric can often feel overwhelming, creating a strong urge to confront and shut down harmful language on the spot. Nonetheless, Pick explained that “combative rhetoric often stems from misinformation.” Rather than matching the combative nature of hate speech, Pick shared that the key is to “lower the temperature” and lead with empathy:

1. Listen first. Understand concerns before responding.
2. Frame conversations around shared values. Emphasize that keeping all kids safe and supported is important.
3. Provide accurate information. Misinformation fuels fear and division.
4. Share accessible resources. Point people to trusted sources like those found on The Trevor Project’s website, which offers guides on evolving terminology, allyship best practices and mental health support.
5. Lead with humility and empathy. Replace fear with facts and foster understanding.

Other Resources:

• Local equality groups
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Final Thought: Supporting the LGBTQIA+ Community 

Creating safe and inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ individuals isn’t optional—it’s a moral imperative, Pick said. Whether you’re an educator, healthcare provider or public service worker, your actions matter. From small daily gestures to systemic advocacy, we all have a role in ensuring that every person feels seen, supported and valued.