Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+

2SLGBTQIA+ Youth face a higher risk of experiencing depression, anxiety and suicide; substance abuse; and violence, harassment and discrimination.

Transgender and gender non-conforming youth are 2X more likely to think about and attempt suicide than cis-gendered members of the LGBTQ+ community. 1 in 5 have avoided school and public spaces, fearing harassment.

You can help promote positive 2SLGBTQIA+ mental health!

Self-awareness and acceptance helps create positive mental health outcomes.

Social support from friends, families, schools and workplaces helps protect 2SLGBTQIA+ youth against poor mental health.

2SLGBTQIA+ peer support helps build resilience and a sense of belonging. Here’s how you be an ally:

Take a stand against bullying.
Respect and use correct pronouns and names
Educate yourself
Accept feedback
Be a good listener
Champion diversity

Resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ and their Allies

Jeunesse IDEM
Support for queer youth (14-25 years), workshops, events. Support for families and allies. Raising awareness and education.

LGBTQ+ Family Coalition
Professional development training to build more inclusive workplaces and communities. Workshops, support and referrals (in particular with regard to individual rights).

Trans Outaouais
Discussion and peer support groups, parents of trans children support groups, free name and gender change swearing-in service, financial support for gender affirmation process, resources and referrals.
Call: 343-202-5006

Éducaloi
Provides LGBTQ2+ legal information in clear language.

Helplines for 2SLGBTQIA+

Interligne
24/7 Free helpline. Phone, text, chat for LGBTQ+ people seeking support and information.
Call or text: 1-888-505-1010

LGBT YouthLine
Confidential and non-judgemental peer support through phone, text and chat.
Call: 1-800-268-9688
Chat: 647-694-4275

Aide aux Trans du Québec (ATQ)
24/7 Free helpline for trans individuals.
Call: 1-855-909-9038 Option #1

Trans Lifeline
Trans peer support hotline. Family and friends hotline.
Call: 877-330-6366

Statistics and information for this resource were derived from the following sources: Trans Pulse Canada, Centre for suicide Prevention, the Mental Health Commission of Canada, Canadian Mental Health Association, and Statistics Canada.

Additional Resources

Watch Michèle, Connexions’ Community Engagement and Outreach Manager for the Pontiac chat with special guest, Taylor Monette, who is currently studying social work at UQO and who completed her internship at Jeunesse Idem, working with queer youth. The duo chats about the Jeunesse IDEM and their services for LGBTQ2S+ youth in the Outaouais. Tune in to find out how we can work together to build safer and more inclusive communities!