Navigating Mental Health Challenges in a Complex Political Climate: Insights from a Queer Black Therapist

Over recent years, political shifts have had a big impact on LGBTQ+ individuals' mental health. The election results and some political figures have caused a noticeable increase in calls from LGBTQ+ folks looking desperately seeking help from mental health support lines. Research backs this up, showing that anti-LGBTQ+ laws can really damage queer people's emotional well-being. Thank goodness, queer therapists have stepped in, playing a pivotal role in helping LGBTQ+ individuals stay emotionally and mentally strong when political storms roll in.

We caught up with Heather Simpson, a queer Black marriage and family therapist associate based in Portland, Oregon. She shared some invaluable strategies that she offers her clients, helping them maintain their mental health during these particularly trying times.

Finding strength: community tips during tough times

When life gets tough, young LGBTQ+ individuals often lean on each other, swapping survival tips. "Find those who love you unconditionally" comes up a lot. This advice stands at Simpson's core in her therapy sessions.

Simpson notes that her clients, especially her Black clients, have begun stepping away from being at every social movement's frontline. Instead, they're focusing on building their own resilience and planning ahead. Her clients often wonder, "What can I do now so I can get through these coming years?"

Simpson helps her clients by crafting action plans and encouraging goal setting, both short-term and long-term. She reminds them that past activists worked tirelessly and building on that legacy could be a source they can draw power from.

Embracing and owning your emotions

Simpson believes it all starts with recognizing and giving respect due our own emotions. "Feeling sadness and anger? That makes you human," she stresses, reiterating that there shouldn't be guilt or shame attached. These emotions are valid.

Channel that anger, she says, turning it toward positive action without getting sidetracked from one's long-term goals. "Protesting's not your only outlet," she advises, urging clients find ways that bring meaning and momentum.

Nurturing supportive communities

As communities sometimes grow apart due in part narrow, individualistic perspectives, Simpson encourages embracing a broader concept where both community and security are concerned. "Start with yourself," she notes, "then start looking outward." True safety, she adds, starts inside, not just being something you put on display.

She encourages vulnerability within communities as a means toward support. "Are you ready and willing show yourself?" she asks. Accepting and being seen by each other fully can create stronger communal ties.

Juggling relationships while protecting privacy

Simpson advises care within personal relationships, especially with trans and young LGBTQ+ individuals. "Be thoughtful about who's in your circle," she cautions. Sometimes keeping parts one's identity under wraps could be key.

Simpson stresses privacy and protecting one's dignity, pointing out when public exposure might bring risks. "Keep each other's secrets close," she urges, reminding community members have one another's back.

Empowering marginalized voices and encouraging allyship

Simpson underscores how allyship and self-examination play roles particularly with cisgender white individuals. She urges them take deep dives exploring their identities and histories, better understanding at systemic issues. "White supremacy's rooted in fear," she explains, promoting pathways that benefit all.

Simpson dreams about transformational change via collective action and understanding. Through self-reflection paired with community support, LGBTQ+ individuals and allies can step up and face political hurdles with a blend hope and resilience.

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