Human sexuality is diverse, and all sexual orientations and gender identities are normal. Understanding your sexuality and gender can be difficult. Aside from the personal challenges, there can be pressure to act and feel a certain way. As you are learning more about your gender identity and sexual orientation (or the gender identity and/or sexual orientation of a family member or friend) it’s normal to feel confused, lost or alone. Remember – you are not alone! Reaching out to people who care about you and understand what you are going through can really help.
HPEPH is working to offer 2SLGBTQI+ public health supports and services that are inclusive, affirming, and welcoming. We recognize that 2SLGBTQI+ folks are members of our community, and we and are working to improve inclusive service provision across the organization. All our programs have a role to play celebrating Pride and supporting the health and well-being of 2SLGBTQI+ community members.
If you, or someone in your life, identifies as 2SLGBTQI+, resources are available to encourage safe and supportive home and learning environments. Studies have shown that 2SLGBTQI+ people who have a strong support system have better overall health, and mental health.
Below, you can find resources from local community agencies, provincial and national organizations for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals (some specific to youth), family members, friends, and educators to individuals identifying as 2SLGBTQI+, as well as create positive and inclusive environments.
Supports for individuals identifying as 2SLGBTQI+
Info Lines
- LGBT Youth Line
Toll Free and anonymous. You can chat one-on-one with youth volunteers who specialize in 2SLGBTQI+ issues. Call 1-800-268-9688. Text: 647-694-4275 - Trans Lifeline
Toll free and anonymous. Provides emotional and financial support for trans people in crisis. The hotline is run by peers who are trans or non-binary. Call 1-877-330-6366.
Local Groups (also open to youth)
- Parents, Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
PFLAG is a resource for 2SLGBTQI+ people and their families. - Say out loud
A group for open minded youth. It offers a safe place for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and questioning youth to connect, seek support, develop new friendships, express themselves, learn about the LGBTQ community and most importantly, have fun. (Belleville – 613-985-9650) - Spectrum
A safe and supportive space for 2SLGBTQI+ youth to hangout, make new friends, enjoy activities and discussions with peers, etc. (Quinte West – 613-392-6946) - Discover YOUth
An all-inclusive safer space for 2SLGBTQI+ youth and their allies. Regularly host guests from our local queer community and beyond. Often do art projects and workshops while discussing our challenges and successes. (Prince Edward County – 613-476-5962) - TRANSforum Quinte
Offers safe, confidential, free support and recreational group for transgender individuals, questioning or transitioning. (705-313-5124)
Websites
- Sex and U
Website containing information on sexual orientation, gender identity, coming out and awareness & respect. - Sexfluent.ca
Educational content that provides youth with the power of choice, using a peer-driven approach that has a sense of encouragement and cheekiness.
Clinics
- Clinics in Ontario that provide information, options and care to transgender individuals, including youth (advice and treatment related to trans care, including general health and wellness services, hormone therapy, and surgery). Please note some clinics require a referral.
Supports for Families and Friends
The most important way that families and friends can help an individual who identify as 2SLGBTQI+ is to support them. This supports development of self-worth and self-esteem. Learning about your friend or family member’s sexual orientation and gender identity will help you understand and support them. Information and education are always the first step.
- Trans Lifeline
Toll free and anonymous. Provide a family and friends support hotline that families, friends, partners and professionals can call to get support/resources for trans people. Call 1-877-330-6366. - Rainbow Caregivers Network
A peer support group for people who care for individuals who identify within the LGBTQ+ community (eg. Parents, grandparents, teachers or care providers). (613-849-4641) - Egale
Information about supporting your gender diverse child. - Prevnet
Information about bullying in the LGTBQ2S+ youth population and how parents can help.
Supports for Educators
Educators can be important 2SLGBTQI+ Allies! One of the key ways to be an ally is to support 2SLGBTQI+ students in your school.
- HPEPH Resources for Educators – Human Development
Find information and tools to teach the human development and sexual health curriculum expectations. - Genderbread Person 4.0
A teaching tool for breaking the big concept of gender down into bite-sized, digestible pieces. - Egale
Resources and research that provides reliable & up-to-date tools and information for 2SLGBTQI people & communities, service providers, schools, and companies.
