Facts
Many people who explore their sexual orientation and/or gender identity find it to be a positive and rewarding experience in the end. However, the process of exploring one's sexual identity, and/or gender identity, can be a confusing and stressful time. In 2011, the Williams Institute reported that there were nearly 9 million LGBTQIA2S+ adults in the United States.
College is often a time of self-discovery and coming out as LGBTQIA2S+ as a college student often brings with it many questions and complications. According to the State of Higher Education Report (2010), of those surveyed 83% of LGBTQIA2S+ college students were likely to be harassed based on their sexual identity and 61% were targets of derogatory remarks.
It is important to know that exploring ones sexual orientation and gender identity is a normal process. While it has its challenges, it can ultimately be rewarding.
Common Experiences Associated with Exploring Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
The process of discovering your sexuality and gender identity can be an exciting and rewarding time in life, but it can also be a scary process to go through and may be accompanied with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that LGBTQIA2S+ youth, ages 14-21, were significantly more likely to experience depression and anxiety than their heterosexual peers, and were 20-40% more likely to attempt suicide. It is important to be aware of your feelings as you take this journey and seek help and guidance when needed.
Things You Can Do
One of the most important things you can do is to remember that you are not alone. At any given moment there are thousands, if not millions, of other college students across the nation who are on a journey of self-discovery in terms of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Reaching out to a few trusted individuals is another important step. Getting support from those you trust can be crucial to not feeling alone and may help with the signs of depression.
Take some time to explore some resources on the topic through various websites or campus organizations like Campus Pride. In addition, CAPS offers a free support group for LGBTQIA2S+ college students. Call 402.554.2409 to get more information on when and where the groups are meeting.
Treatment
If you would like support along your journey of self-discovering and identity awareness and development, then coming to talk to a counselor is a great option. Counselors can discuss your experiences and symptoms and help you develop strategies to increase your mood. In addition, counseling can help you along on your journey while you manage the struggles that are sometimes associated with this process.
Helping a Friend
If a friend comes to you for help and guidance in their process of exploring their sexuality and/or gender identity you should feel proud that they trust you enough to include you in their journey. It is important to remain accepting and supportive as this can be a difficult time for your friend.
Confidentiality should be one of your highest priorities as to make sure that your friend can trust you not to tell others of the process they are going through. Sometimes friends just need someone to listen and not necessarily give advice. Active listening can be one of the most supportive things you can do for a friend. If it seems like they are really struggling in their journey then recommend that they come talk to a counselor.
You can also reach out to local groups who help support those who are supporting their friends and loved ones. One local group can be found here: PFLAG Omaha.