Bronntanas LGBTQI mental health and wellbeing

Bronntanas LGBTQI

As therapists and activists, we are aware of shortfalls in the adequate provision of mental health services that are appropriate to LGBTQIAF people, and we are motivated to address this. By increasing the availability of a range of relevant social and psychotherapeutic support, we can help to foster positive LGBTQIAF identities and reduce the risk of adverse mental health issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, self-harming activities and suicide.

Research published in The LGBTIreland Report (2016) shows that LGBTQI people face specific barriers to accessing mental health services. Obstacles include:

a lack of understanding of LGBTQI issues by those in the helping professions
a fear among LGBTQI people that their sexual orientation or gender identity would be seen by practitioners as ‘the’ problem.

We aim to change this unsupportive environment. Bronntanas LGBTQI will develop and deliver a range of psychotherapeutic interventions to boost the mental health and wellbeing of people living in rural Ireland who identify as LGBTQIAF (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, Fetish). Our services will support individuals and couples who are questioning or exploring their sexual orientation, and families who need support around issues of sexuality and gender identity.