< Back to School Policy Hub Mental Health Counseling and Parent Notification Mental Health Counseling and Parent Notification Mental Health Counseling and Parent Notification For many LGBTQ+ students, access to school-based mental health support can be life-changing. A trusted counselor can offer a safe place to talk about identity, relationships, family challenges, or the everyday stress of school. But in Florida, recent laws and district policies have created confusion and fear about how private those conversations really are. What the Law Says About Parental Rights Florida’s Parents’ Bill of Rights ( HB 241, 2021 ; Ch. 1014, F.S. ) gives parents broad authority over decisions affecting their child’s upbringing, education, and health care. It requires school districts to promote parental involvement and allows parents to access their child’s educational and health records. The Parental Rights in Education Act ( HB 1557, 2022 ; § 1001.42(8)(c), F.S. )—later expanded by HB 1069, 2023 ; § 1000.071, F.S. —requires that schools notify parents about certain changes in a student’s mental, emotional, or physical well-being and prohibits staff from discouraging parental involvement. HB 1069 also added restrictions on pronoun use and expanded the ban on classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity to additional grade levels. These laws do not require counselors to automatically disclose a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity unless there is a documented safety concern. However, district-level procedures in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach have been shaped by these laws, resulting in more cautious approaches to mental health counseling and disclosure. How District Policies Apply: Miami-Dade County Public Schools Board Policy 2410.01 – Mental Health Services outlines the district’s responsibilities under state law, including offering community referrals and delivering services through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Threat Assessment & Mental Health Services Guide for School Administrators details when and how parental consent is required for referrals, and how confidentiality applies in short-term counseling. Broward County Public Schools Policy 1480 – School Counseling Records and FERPA Protections explains how counseling and psychological records are protected under FERPA and Florida law. Family Counseling Program provides free, confidential short-term counseling for students and families, with parental consent required for ongoing services or outside referrals. Palm Beach County Public Schools Palm Beach’s Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan outlines a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for student mental health, including school-based mental health professionals, co-located clinicians from community providers, and crisis intervention teams. The plan states that parent or guardian involvement is encouraged, but services may begin with student self-referral and initial confidential support, especially when safety is not an immediate concern. Official record changes, such as legal names, still require parental approval under state law. What the Law Still Allows Across all three counties, there is no statewide or district policy requiring immediate parental notification for every counseling session. A student can speak with a school counselor without automatic disclosure, unless the counselor believes the student is at risk of harm. Both Florida’s School Counseling Framework and the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) standards recognize student confidentiality as critical for effective care. What Students and Parents Should Know Students : You have the right to request mental health support at school. Before your session, ask your counselor about confidentiality and what information may be shared. If you feel unsafe at home, make that clear—it may help protect your privacy. Parents : You have the right to be informed about significant changes affecting your child’s well-being, but not every conversation they have. Building trust helps ensure your child seeks help both at school and at home. Educators and Counselors : Know your district’s policies, state laws, and ethical codes. When uncertain, consult your legal department and follow professional counseling standards. Why This Matters Mental health support saves lives. LGBTQ+ students are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts—not because of who they are, but because of the hostility and isolation they face. Limiting confidential support only increases these risks. At a time when public policy is shifting, PRISM believes that Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach schools still have a duty to support students with care, integrity, and adherence to both the law and professional ethics. We are here to help students, parents, and school staff understand their rights and navigate these rules without fear.

< Back to School Policy Hub Black Lives Matter What is Black Lives Matter? Black Lives Matter march in Oakland, California in 2014 (Image Source: Annette Bernhardt, December 14th, 2014) Black Lives Matter is a movement as well as an organization with the goal of fighting against white supremacy and injustices against Black communities. The movement has also strongly supported the LGBTQ+ community, with transgender and queer members having leadership roles in the organization and leaders speaking out against sidelining Black LGBTQ+ activists. Although it had its origins in the United States, the Black Lives Matter movement has remained influential internationally, having 16 chapters in total in the United States and Canada and inspiring protests for Black lives in countries as far as Israel and South Africa. Origins Black Lives Matter rally at the Vancouver Art Gallery after the death of George Floyd (Image Source: GoToVan, May 31st, 2020) Black Lives Matter began in 2013 as a hashtag on social media protesting the acquittal of George Zimmerman, murderer of unarmed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin. It was started by Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, three Black women who wanted to fight against the injustice Black people face in the United States’s criminal justice system. The creation of the Black Lives Matter movement was also inspired by several human rights movements in the past, ranging from the 1960s Civil Rights Movement to the 2000s LGBTQ+ movement. Progression Although it did not gain much traction immediately after its creation, Black Lives Matter started taking off in August 2014 after news of the homicide of 18-year-old Michael Brown by a white police officer spread globally on social media. In protests and rallies speaking out against this injustice, the Black Lives Matter movement grew online and in the streets, with “#BlackLivesMatter” being used over 50 thousand times per day on social media. The movement gained even more traction after the jury involved in the case decided not to charge Darren Wilson, the police officer in question, with Michael Brown’s homicide. Since then, the movement has been vocal about police brutality and discrimination against Black communities on a grander scale. Resurgence Black Lives Matter signs on the empty pedestal of the statue of Edward Colston in Bristol, which was toppled by protesters for honoring a slave trader (Image Source: Caitlin Hobbs, June 7th, 2020) The Black Lives Matter movement had a resurgence on May 25, 2020, when unarmed George Floyd was murdered at the hands of Derek Chauvin, a white police officer who used a violent method of restriction to hold Floyd down after allegations emerged of him using a counterfeit $20 bill. A video of this event went viral on social media, and people all over the world became enraged and took to social media and the streets to protest against police brutality and emphasize that “Black Lives Matter.” Ever since then, the Black Lives Matter movement has been increasingly active in the form of protests against more instances of police brutality and injustice, both recent and not recent, including the deaths of Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain, and Rayshard Brooks. References About . Black Lives Matter. (2020, October 16). https://blacklivesmatter.com/about/ . Asmelash, L. (2020, July 26). How Black Lives Matter went from a hashtag to a global rallying cry . CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/26/us/black-lives-matter-explainer-trnd/index.html . Ater, R. (2020, May 29). IN MEMORIAM: I CAN'T BREATHE . Renée Ater. https://www.reneeater.com/on-monuments-blog/tag/list+of+unarmed+black+people+killed+by+police . Herstory . Black Lives Matter. (2019, September 7). https://blacklivesmatter.com/herstory/ . Kirby, J. (2020, June 12). "Black Lives Matter" has become a global rallying cry against racism and police brutality . Vox. https://www.vox.com/2020/6/12/21285244/black-lives-matter-global-protests-george-floyd-uk-belgium . Mercado, I. (2020, August 6). The Black Lives Matter Movement: An Origin Story . Underground Railroad Education Center. https://undergroundrailroadhistory.org/the-black-lives-matter-movement-an-origin-story/ .

Interested in joining the Youth Support Group? Apply here! < Return to Resources Youth Support Group PRISM's LGBTQ+ Youth Support Group is open to youth ages 14-17 who live in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade County. What is the Youth Support Group? PRISM's Youth Support Group is a safe space for you to come and connect with other LGBTQ+ youth ages 14-17 in a supportive environment. It is led by a Master of Social Work student through PRISM's Discord server. Who can join the Youth Support Group? In order to join the Youth Support Group, you must: Be 14-17 years old Live in Palm Beach, Broward, or Miami-Dade County Have access to a reliable internet connection and Discord How do I register for the Youth Support Group? Interested in signing up? We'd love to have you! You can start by filling out a Youth Support Group Application or contacting us directly. You can contact info@prismfl.org if you have any questions. When is the next meeting? PRISM's Youth Support Group generally meets twice per month through Discord. You can find upcoming support group meetings below. Upcoming Meetings Multiple Dates Monthly Volunteer & Organizer Orientation Thu, Sep 24 Google Meet Link sent day-of Orientation RSVP Multiple Dates PRISM Tabletop Role-Playing Experience Fri, Oct 02 Guildhall Anime Game Lounge RSVP Multiple Dates Join PRISM at the Broward School Board Meeting Tue, Oct 13 KCW Administration Building RSVP Multiple Dates Join PRISM at the Miami-Dade School Board Meeting Wed, Oct 14 Miami-Dade School Board Auditorium RSVP Multiple Dates Join PRISM at the Palm Beach School Board Meeting Wed, Oct 14 Fulton-Holland Educational Center RSVP Florida City Health and Wellness Community Fair Sat, Sep 12 Florida City Community Center Learn more International Overdose Awareness Day Mon, Aug 31 Compass LGBTQ Center Learn more Miami Dream Fair Sat, Aug 22 Regatta Park Details The Underline x The Out Collective Pride Run Wed, Aug 19 The Underline River Room Details Dorm Storms Tue, Aug 18 FIU MMC Campus & FAU Boca Raton Campus Learn more Pack with Purpose Sat, Aug 15 First Unitarian Universalist Congregatio Learn more PrideFête 2026 Sat, Aug 08 Richardson Historic Park Details GSA Leadership Bootcamp Mon, Jul 27 Virtual Interactive Training Details We The People March Fri, Jul 03 Esplanade Park Details Pride 5K Sat, Jun 27 West Palm Beach Waterfront Details Stonewall Pride Sat, Jun 20 Wilton Drive Details Ceramic League of Miami's Summer Maker's Market Sat, Jun 20 Ceramic League of Miami Details Pride Exhibition Opening Reception: Lost and Found: LGBTQIA+ Spaces in Our Community Wed, Jun 10 Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach Count Details Load More

< Back to School Policy Hub Birth Control Patch What is the Birth Control Patch? How it Works Using it Effectively What is the Birth Control Patch? Birth Control Patch (Unsplash; Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition) The birth control patch is a thin, square patch that is approximately 2 inches by 2 inches and sticks to the skin. Each patch comes individually wrapped and releases hormones through the skin into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. How it Works The combination of the hormones progesterone and estrogen prevents ovulation; that is, the release of an egg from the ovaries during a uterus’s monthly cycle. Without an egg, pregnancy is impossible because there is nothing for sperm to fertilize. The hormones in the patch also thicken the mucus produced in the cervix, therefore making it difficult for sperm to enter and reach any eggs that may have been released. The hormones may also affect the lining of the uterus so that even if the egg is fertilized the egg will have difficulty attaching to the wall of the uterus. No birth control is 100% effective. The birth control patch is 93% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, for those weighing over 198 pounds, it may be less effective. Birth control patches do not protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Only condoms and dental dams work to protect from STIs. Using it Effectively The most effective time to start the patch is up to five days after the start of a period. It is recommended to use other forms of contraception for the first seven days of using the patch. One new patch should be applied anywhere on the skin except the breasts, genitals, palms of hands, or soles of feet. The most common places to apply the patch are the buttocks, stomach, upper outer arm, or upper torso. Lotions, makeup, and other skin products can prevent the patch from sticking well and should be avoided. A new patch should be applied once a week for three weeks in a row, ensuring the patch is applied on the same day of the week. The patch should be removed at the end of the third week in order to have a period. The patch should be reapplied if it loosens or falls off for less than a day. If the patch was off for more than one day, a new patch should be applied and that day should be considered as the new start of the week. Those who are interested in learning more about the possible health benefits and risks of different types of birth control, including the patch, should talk to a doctor or other health professional. References Reproductive Health Access Project. (February 2021). Fact Sheet: The Patch . https://www.reproductiveaccess.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/factsheet_patch.pdf Teens Health from The Nemours Foundation. (2017). Birth Control Patch. https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/contraception-patch.html

< Back to School Policy Hub Florida LGBTQ+ Organizations Launch #StayGay Campaign With the adoption of the infamous "Don't Say Gay" law on July 1st and other anti-LGBT bills sweeping across the country, PRISM FL, Inc. and several LGBTQ+ organizations throughout Florida have launched a new social media campaign and movement called "#SayGay" to place public pressure on companies to support LGBTQ+ organizations year-round. Rainbow capitalism or pink capitalism is a marketing tactic used by companies to embed LGBTQ+ topics into advertising and merchandise in order to make a profit, most commonly seen during Pride Month. Generally, LGBTQ+ marketing is seen as rainbow capitalism when companies also make contributions to anti-LGBT causes or political campaigns or when they do little to provide tangible support to the LGBTQ+ community. "Rainbow capitalism negatively impacts the entirety of the community worldwide," said CJ Walden, Vice-President of PRISM. "Corporations who gain profit from pride-related merchandise without giving back to the LGBTQ+ community only do us harm." #StayGay, which launches on June 20th, not only makes it known just how much companies contribute to anti-LGBT campaigns and the LGBT community, but it also shows companies how they can connect with LGBT nonprofits in the state. "With the Don’t Say Gay bill going into effect the day after pride month, it is so important that companies put their money where their mouth is," said Maxx Fenning, President of PRISM. "In June, they #SayGay. The other eleven months, they should #StayGay." Those interested in learning more are encouraged to visit www.staygay.org or contact PRISM FL, Inc. at staygay@prismfl.org .

< Back to School Policy Hub IUDs What is an IUD? Types of IUDs Getting an IUD Removing an IUD What is an IUD? IUDs, or Intrauterine Devices, are small, flexible pieces of plastic shaped like a T. They are extremely effective in preventing pregnancy. By extremely effective, we mean over 99% effective, making it one of the most reliable forms of contraception available. This is because IUDs leave no room for error. Unlike condoms, birth control, and many other forms of contraception, you don't need to remember to use them. Because they last for years, you can get an IUD inserted and won't have to worry about it again until it expires. IUDs work by changing how sperm cells move so they can't reach an egg. IUDs do not protect you from STIs Only condoms and dental dams can protect you from STIs. Diagram of a IUD properly set inside the uterus (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc / Cameron Makris) Types of IUDs There are two different types of IUDs: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. Copper IUDs Copper IUDs don't contain hormones. Instead, they're wrapped in copper, which protects from pregnancy for up to 12 years. Sperm doesn't like copper, so it prevents them from getting to an egg. They are effective as soon as you get one inserted. Copper IUDs can also be used as emergency contraception. If you get a copper IUD inserted within 5 days of having unprotected sex, it's over 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy. These can make your periods heavier and cramps worse. This usually goes away over time, but talk to your doctor if you feel any discomfort or pain. Hormonal IUDs Hormonal IUDs use the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy. While it varies depending on the brand, hormonal IUDs generally work for up to 3-7 years. Progestin works to prevent pregnancy by thickening the mucus in the cervix to trap the sperm and sometimes preventing ovulation. These make your periods lighter, and you may stop getting your period at all. If you get a hormonal IUD inserted within the first 7 days of your period, these protect againt pregnancy immediately. If it's inserted at any other point in your cycle, you'll be protected after 7 days. Getting an IUD IUDs have to be inserted by a doctor or nurse. If you have health insurance, you can likely get an IUD for free. When getting an IUD, your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix, and uterus and may test you for STDs. They may offer to numb you before the procedure starts. The nurse or doctor will use a speculum and a special inserter to insert the IUD into your uterus. This normally only takes a few minutes. Some people may feel cramping or pain when getting their IUD inserted, but this is usually brief. Removing an IUD If your IUD is about to expire and you still don't want to get pregnant, or if you want to get pregnant now, you'll need to have your IUD removed. This is usually very simple. Your doctor will gently pull the string, and the IUD's arms will fold up so it can slip out. You may experience cramping, although this should be very brief. Unless you start another form of hormonal birth control, your period will go back to how it was before you got your IUD. You can get pregnant as soon as you get your IUD removed. If your IUD slips partially out or falls out completely (this can happen during the first 3 months), call your doctor immediately. If this happens, you can get pregnant. References IUD Birth Control | Info About Mirena & Paraguard IUDs . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/iud .

< Return to Open Positions Website Design Manager We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Website Design Manager Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org PRISM’s Website Design Manager facilitates content creation and brand development across prismfl.org. This is a part-time position (15 hours per week) with an expected pay of $21/hour. Responsibilities: Develop designs for PRISM’s Website Monitor web and UX/UI trends, including developments in design, applications, strategy, and innovation to stay relevant and effective Maintain PRISM’s website through our CMS and manage new content, SEO, advertising, and analytics Compile and send PRISM’s weekly newsletter and monthly donor newsletter Provide graphic design support for the Content Creation team when needed Qualifications: Experience with web and UX/UI design Experience with graphic design Knowledge of HTML, CSS, and Javascript Experience with marketing, SEO, and web analytics Experience with Wix (Preferred) Experience with Neon CRM (Preferred) PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

Outreach Correspondents use their bountiful charisma (and sometimes terrifyingly undying enthusiasm) to share PRISM and expand our volunteer base. < Return to Task Forces Outreach Task Force (OTF) The Outreach Task Force coordinates events and other activities to spread awareness of the amazing work PRISM does and build connections with the community. Our outreach correspondants are spreading the word, one connection at a time. About Members Programs Join What does the Outreach Task Force do? The Outreach Task Force coordinates events and other activities to spread awareness of the amazing work PRISM does and builds connections with the community. Who makes up the Outreach Task Force? Outreach Director The Outreach Director helps get the word out about PRISM at events and online! From volunteer recruitment to coordinating in-person events, the love and soul they provide makes PRISM all the more lively. Volunteer Outreach Correspondents The social butterflies of PRISM's membership, Outreach Correspondents share PRISM by actively seeking out volunteers, donors, and supporters through social media or at Outreach events. How does the Outreach Task Force share PRISM? Get The Word Out Events One of the most prominent methods that Outreach Correspondents gain support for PRISM is through Get The Word Out events, where volunteers go out into the community to share PRISM and answer questions. These can be markets, festivals, fundraisers, and more! And More! Our Outreach Task Force is always developing new ways to get the word out about PRISM. Check back here or sign up for our newsletter to find out about future initiatives! How do I join the Outreach Task Force? Interested in helping out? We'd love to have you. You can start by filling out a Volunteer Application Form , applying to one of the many positions in the Outreach Task Force, or contacting us directly. Back to Top About Members Join

< Back to School Policy Hub Where to Find Support Where do I turn to for support? Whether you are questioning your sexuality/gender identity or need help navigating issues specific to the LGBT community, there is always a place to turn to. Family Sometimes the closest people to you can be the best option to talk to. While friendships may not last forever, family members often have a strong, life-long bond. However, if this is not an option you feel comfortable with or you know you won’t receive the support you need, another outlet may be more suitable. Peers Part of the shift into adolescence (which, in many cases, is when people begin exploring their sexuality and gender identity) is transitioning from a reliance on your immediate family to a reliance on your chosen family: your friends. Reliable, steadfast friends will provide you with encouragement and support. Those who don't are better off removed from your life. Guidance Counselors If you are a student, a guidance counselor can be a great option to seek out support. Their job is to guide, help, and support you. In many schools (including those in Palm Beach County), counselors are barred from disclosing your sexuality or gender identity so long there is not an immediate indication of the intent to self-harm or harm others. If you feel comfortable enough then a guidance counselor could be a great option. Therapy Licensed therapists can be a great outlet for more than just sexuality and gender identity. It's important to research their experience with LGBT issues. Unfortunately, one hurdle preventing many from seeking therapy is cost. If you're uninsured, you can find affordable mental health services at local community mental health centers or online through telehealth services. Support Groups If you feel that none of the above options are accessible to you. A support group may be the best resource. Support groups are comprised of people who all face similar problems, so it can be a great way to talk about your feelings and get guidance. PRISM If everything that we've stated is inaccessible or uncomfortable for you, PRISM is a great mode of support. PRISM's general volunteer meetings involve mental health check-ins every week. PRISM prides itself in promoting a safe, welcoming environment for everyone involved. Join PRISM's safe and welcoming Discord today!

< Return to Open Positions Video Editor We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Video Editor Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org Video Editors transform raw footage into engaging videos that bring PRISM’s campaigns and events to life. PRISM produces a wide range of digital content to educate and mobilize our community. Video Editors work within the Content Creation Task Force to craft compelling video stories from event footage, campaign materials, and social media content. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Pay: $50 Short-Form Video Edit $100 Long-Form Video Edit $125 Rush Video Edit Responsibilities: Edit short-form video content for social media, including reels, TikToks, and promotional videos Edit event recap videos and campaign-related content Add captions, motion graphics, transitions, and other visual elements when appropriate Ensure videos align with PRISM’s visual style and brand guidelines Work closely with videographers and content creators to maintain storytelling continuity Deliver edited videos within agreed timelines Qualifications: Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro and / or After Effects Experience editing social media content or event footage Ability to incorporate text, graphics, and audio effectively into videos Strong attention to detail and storytelling ability Exposure to LGBTQ+ issues, BIPOC and LatinX history, or sexual health Video Editors are welcome to include work created for PRISM in their personal portfolios. PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

< Return to Open Positions STI Clinic Search Manager We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: STI Clinic Search Manager Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org PRISM relies on the dedicated contributions of volunteers to further its initiatives. The Survey Program Manager oversees the STI Clinic Search within our Research Task Force. Currently, this is an unpaid volunteer position. What you get: An opportunity to make a difference in the LGBTQ+ community, improve your leadership skills, a chance to make an impact, and a new experience to add to your resume. Responsibilities: Expand and maintain PRISM’s database of free and low-cost STI testing centers Oversee the STI Clinic Vetting program and its volunteers Recruit testing sites for the Certified Partner Program and ensure they meet and maintain all requirements for participation Qualifications: Experience with STI testing, prevention, or outreach Experience with Google Suite (Sheets, Docs, Slides, etc.) Management experience preferred Exposure to LGBT issues, sexual health/public health, or gender and sexuality PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

< Back to School Policy Hub AAPI Youth and Mental Health [Content Warning: Mention of suicide and self-harm statistics in regards to racial discrimination.] Loneliness and Alienation The Statistics Why AAPI Mental Health Isn’t Taken Seriously Coping and Resources Conclusion Loneliness and Alienation Asian-American/Pacific Islander person staring somberly outside a window. (Image Source: Photo by Nate Neelson on Unsplash ) AAPI Youth have struggled to grapple with their identities. The vicious pressure at a young age to assimilate with “regular society” while also living up to familial expectations and tradition forces them to overextend themselves. It does not help that racial discrimination from peers and strangers is common, as AAPI fall victim to the assumption that they are foreign (despite not always being foreign-born) and therefore inferior based off their race. Unfortunately, these situations that are all-too-familiar can lead to a feeling of alienation and the need to internalize your true identity, feelings, and aspirations. The same thing can be said for LGBTQ+ Youth who are Asian American/Pacific Islanders, and add to that profound sense of isolation. The Statistics The Trevor Project conducted a study which reported on AAPI LGBTQ+ Youth in connection with Mental Health. The report includes that self-harm is reported by 55% of AAPI LGBTQ+ Youth, with rates being higher among ones who identify as transgender/non-binary or are Pacific Islanders/Native Hawaiians. It is also said that overall, 40% of AAPI LGBTQ+ Youth have “seriously considered suicide in the past year,” with a higher rate among Pacific Islanders/Native Hawaiians, Korean-Americans, and Filipino-Americans in the 40-49% range. The National Alliance on Mental Illness says that “AAPI have the lowest [care-seeking] rate out of any racial/ethnic group,” bringing to attention the unfortunate racial disparity when it comes to mental health services of people of color and the stress of having to prove oneself constantly due to systemic racism, stereotypes like the model minority myth, and family expectations. Model Minority Myth The model minority myth is the inaccurate idea that Asian Americans possess innate qualities and behaviors which make them academically superior to other minority groups... [Read More] Why AAPI Mental Health Isn’t Taken Seriously (And Why You Should Care) Familial Expectations AAPI Culture is incredibly diverse, so values highly differ among a mosaic of lifestyles. However, it is not uncommon for the more rigid, family-oriented cultures among them to emphasize a heteronormative standard; hence a lot of queer relationships or non-conformity is often shunned. AAPI might often feel the need to appeal to their family’s traditional way of life, having to choose between shameless individuality in exchange for being “invisible” or acceptance from the world in exchange for self-love/actualization. According to an article from the American Psychological Association: “Twenty-four participants described experiences of conflict with their AA families regarding their sexual orientation, coming out, and/or relationships. The level of participants’ disclosure of their sexual orientation to family and degree of relational conflicts varied according to their parents’ degree of [awareness or acceptance]. For participants who were not out to their family it seemed to create ‘pressure on the home front, being unable to be who I truly am with my parents.’” Societal Expectations The assumption (referred to as the model minority myth ) that AAPI are given special treatment simply because they are statistically more successful in academics and other fields gives leeway to harmful stereotypes. It also: Treats AAPI like a monolith despite their diverse set of cultures, languages and beliefs Delegitimizes race-based traumatic stress that AAPI face throughout their lives, and belittles it to some minor inconvenience with no major effect (which is textbook example of gaslighting, wake up.) Puts down other racial/ethnic groups who experience race-based scrutiny, bullying, and traumatic stress. Adds onto unrealistic expectations already put onto AAPI. As previously stated, this pressure can lead to a very heightened feeling of isolation and identity confusion. AAPI might not seek out mental health services for many reasons, whether it be shame or stigma, a language barrier, or certain faiths and beliefs. Another major reason is that non-Western medicine or practices are sought out more often among AAPI, especially by ones who are First-generation immigrants. Everyone should be aware of the importance of mental health, and a real focus has to be made to offer mental health resources for people of color who are affected by systemic racism. As Kevin Wong, the Trevor Project’s VP of Communications, said in reference to the survey on LGBTQ+ AAPI Youth: “These data points show a critical need to invest in–whether it’s resources or suicide prevention efforts–for youth that are culturally responsive and reflect those diverse identities.” Coping and Resources The trauma of being discriminated against, shunned, and alienated can take such tolls on an AAPI Youth, while also taking into account Queer AAPI. However, there is a light in the darkness. A 2015 article (Sung et al.) says: “[The] multiple minority identities [of Queer AAPI] can also be sources of strength and coping to manage stigma-related stress in their daily lives. [They] may obtain more flexible and adaptable views in responding to life events because they have been exposed to both Asian and Western values and perspectives on their life experiences (pg. 3).” A way of coping is surrounding yourself with other AAPI Youth, or joining heritage clubs or GSAs. That way you will be around people your age and be able to talk about your experiences and struggles. If you are not the social type, another way you can deal with this is reading or finding curated resources online. It is okay to reach out with credible organizations like these; they are dedicated to helping you and making you seen. Here is a PDF (with clickable links) from the Mental Health Coalition with a myriad of resources. Conclusion AAPI are tired of having to leave it up to ourselves and having to carry the burden of many worlds all on our own. However, there is no change if we give into the shame that has been instilled into us. I dream of a world where people of color get the proper help and reparations they need. That we’ll be able to say “I’m Asian” from the highest mountain, with zero shame, and no pit in the stomach. That world is far, but it isn’t out of reach. Reference The Trevor Project. (n.d.). The Mental Health and Well-Being of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) LGBTQ Youth . Retrieved May 23, 2022, from https://www.thetrevorproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/AAPI-LGBTQ-Youth-Mental-Health-Report.pdf National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). Asian American and Pacific Islanders . Retrieved May 23, 2022, from https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions/Asian-American-and-Pacific-Islander Yi, V., & Museus, S. D. (2015, December 30). Model Minority Myth . Wiley Online Library. Retrieved May 23, 2022, from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9781118663202.wberen528 AAPI Women Lead [aapiwomenlead]. (2022, May 12). Coverage on an NBC News Articles covering a recent Trevor Project survey conducted on AAPI LGBTQ+ youth. [Instagram post]. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/p/CdeO5UEJ70N/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Sung, M. R., Szymanski, D. M., & Henrichs-Beck, C. (2015). Challenges, coping, and benefits of being an Asian American lesbian or bisexual woman . https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/features/sgd-sgd0000085.pdf