The Spaces That Save Us: On Pride, Identity & Community
Pride month is not only a time to celebrate ourselves and honor the ways we got ourselves to this current moment, but also an opportunity to reflect on community, found families, and what this means to us. It can be a time to acknowledge the folx we found along the way and the support systems that have been built. Realizing the importance of having people in our corner can also play a major part in our journey of self-discovery. For many of us, these support systems are not only a part of our everyday joy, but also a means of survival. During trying times, it’s more important than ever to have community.
The reality is, chosen families and community spaces often fill the empty gaps left by biological families or institutions that couldn’t—or wouldn’t—accept our identities. When times get tough, it’s support from affirming communities that can make all the difference in our day to day lives.
You can’t deny it. Research states how important community acceptance can be for mental health. Those who are actively experiencing rejection are more likely to have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health struggles. Even to the extent that those who experience chronic minority stress, may not be strangers to the feeling of not wanting to be alive anymore. Constant rejection or denial of your existence can drive those most vulnerable into isolation. These messages of intolerance, over time, chip away at our sense of self. It’s not a stretch to say that affirmation can save lives.
Luckily, the reverse is true as well. Unconditional support, compassion, and non-judgmental listening create the healing sense of community many queer people seek. Acceptance provides an opportunity for us to exhale, to be seen, and to begin accepting ourselves fully. This can uplift many to accept who they are and the identities they find home in. That’s the strength of community; it shows us that we belong, that our lives have meaning, and that we’re not alone.
In today’s world, being your authentic self can be a radical act. It can feel like swimming against the current—but finding even one space where you’re accepted can shift your overall well being. Of course, building or finding community can be slow or difficult, especially if you’ve been hurt before. That’s okay. Healing takes time. Everyone’s path is different.
There are many places to find a community—local libraries, LGBTQ+ centers, and online spaces can serve as a starting point. Sometimes it may seem like you are alone, but you can find community in unexpected places.
Another way to find support through your mental health journey to build resilience is to find a health provider who may share or affirm your identity. Seeing a queer-identified therapist, or someone deeply familiar with queer experiences, can provide a safe space to unpack your story, explore your identity, and build the resilience needed to thrive.
At Nido Individual & Family Therapy, we are proud to have a team of sympathetic queer-identified clinicians with diverse experience and expertise, ready to join beside you on your journey. Whether you’re exploring identity, stress, or just need someone in your corner — Nido is here.
Reach out for a free phone consultation to find the therapist who’s the best fit for your journey. You deserve support, and you don’t have to do this alone.
