Tips for Texans in the LGBTQIA+ Community
Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election has heightened anxiety within the LGBTQIA+ community. With his track record on LGBTQIA+ rights and recent anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, many in the community are left wondering what the future holds.
Some LGBTQ Texans are feeling hopeful with the first LGBTQ member of Congress from Texas having just been elected. This historic win along with the many advocacy groups and allies still fighting for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in Texas show us that the fight is not over, and that progress is still possible!
In this post, we will provide an overview of how the current political and social environment is impacting the social-emotional health of LGBTQ individuals, as well, as provide actionable steps both queer individuals and allies can take to maintain your emotional & mental health, navigate the current political environment, and if you so choose… fight for your equally valid rights and freedoms as a fellow American of the United States.
In This Article:
The Political Climate and Its Effects
For LGBTQIA+ individuals, the political landscape is more than policy—it’s personal. Southern states in particular have already initiated a series of anti-LGBTQ legislation fueling the social stigma and raising concerns among individuals about the immediate and long-term loss of equal legal rights.
Some of the most recent changes are outlined in the following articles:
With Donald Trump reclaiming the presidency, many LGBTQIA+ individuals are now facing renewed concerns about potential policy reversals and the intensification of discriminatory rhetoric that could shape their lives in profound ways.
During his first term, the administration enacted measures that rolled back key protections and eroded hard-won rights. The reinstatement of anti-LGBTQIA+ policies, such as banning transgender individuals from military service and rescinding anti-discrimination protections in healthcare and education, unfortunately continues to be a realistic threat.
With promises to extend restrictions on gender-affirming care and to solidify Title IX policies that limit transgender inclusion in schools, the transgender and non-binary community are bracing themselves for impactful changes. Policies that restrict or criminalize such medical services would exacerbate existing challenges and thus has led to widespread apprehension about accessing necessary healthcare.
Moreover, discussions of potential regulations that curtail LGBTQIA+ representation in educational and public spaces have already raised alarms about visibility, acceptance, and safety.
Implications for Daily Life and Mental Health
The apprehension about further legislative rollbacks and increased discrimination leads to stress that can impact daily life, relationships, and mental health. This environment not only exacerbates feelings of isolation and anxiety for LGBTQ individuals, but a discriminatory social environment such as this can further threaten the physical safety of LGBTQ individuals as well.
A recent report by the Texas Observer discussed statistical data which reflects that the queer community in Texas have the “highest rate of all hate crimes in the state”, citing “more than 4 times the rate of any other group”. (Texas Sets New Hate Crimes Record, DPS Data Show). According to the Texas Observer, Texas “set a new record for the 6th year in a row” of marked increase of violence toward LGBTQ individuals in Texas.
For those of us closely associated with this community, these numbers unfortunately come as no surprise. These statistics prove that even words or intended actions from our leaders and politicians have a huge impact on our social environment, making community support more crucial than ever for the queer community.
Increased Stress, Anxiety, and Feeling Unwelcome
Mental health experts, including those at The Mind Parlor, have noted a spike in clients expressing fears of discrimination and uncertainty about the future. The concern isn't just hypothetical—it's a reminder of past actions where rollback of rights coincided with increased incidents of discrimination and mental health struggles.
This heightened level of concern not only affects individuals directly impacted by potential policy changes but also ripples out to allies and supportive communities. The community’s resilience, advocacy, and support systems have become crucial lifelines, but the strain of constant defense against discriminatory policies has drastically amplified mental health concerns.
Many LGBTQIA+ individuals are left questioning their place in society. Fearing their marriages will at some point no longer be valid, that their existing access to medical & mental health care will be removed, or at the very least, feeling unwelcome in a place where they were born and have always called home.
“We’re seeing clients desperately applying for passports, frantically researching options to live out of state, or even outside of the country.” reports Brittany Stilwell, Licensed Professional Counselor and Founder of The Mind Parlor.
“Unfortunately, there are some who don’t have this luxury. Moving is expensive and leaving your home and existing support system behind is scary; the administrative steps alone can be overwhelming. The sad truth is that many are not emotionally capable of making such a drastic change. And they shouldn’t have to. They shouldn’t have to uproot their life and leave their home out of fear for their safety or removal of their human rights.”
The Mind Parlor has committed to remaining a pillar of support, offering specialized care for the LGBTQIA+ community and therapy that focuses on managing stress, navigating social stigma, and fostering resilience during uncertain times. Even in this tricky political environment, The Mind Parlor has successfully aided their transgender clients in pursuing and attaining the medical interventions necessary for their mental health.
"Ensuring that LGBTQIA+ Texans have access to affirming spaces is more important than ever. At The Mind Parlor, we can connect you to local resources, in addition to providing you direct access to our unconditionally affirming space that we created for you."
Managing Stress & Anxiety During Uncertainty
Number 1:
General Anxiety & Stress Management Tips
Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion.
Don’t say anything to yourself that you wouldn’t say to a close loved one or friend.
Need more tips on this topic, check out our post here.
Remind yourself that this hate you are witnessing is not actually about you as a person. Because you, as an individual, have done nothing wrong and you are not harming anyone by being yourself and pursuing happiness. Their hate and judgment are a reflection of them. There are many psychological reasons for this, but we won’t cover that here.
Prepare for the future but live in the present.
It's okay to plan ahead, but don't forget to stay present with what's actually happening (or not happening) in the moment. Fixation on the future is a recipe for anxiety.
Do the things which make you happy
(to the best of your ability). Pursue your hobbies, take yourself on "selfie dates", spend time with friends & loved ones who accept & celebrate you. Prioritize the relationships which feel easy.
See your therapist.
Having a completely safe place to get it all out is invaluable and a necessary process for our brain & body to move on. Just like digesting food or water, there is a specific process for digesting emotions too.
If you are in Texas & need someone who you can trust to understand and who has actual verified experience working with this community, click the button below and send us an inquiry.
The Mind Parlor has been working with the LGBTQ+ community for 15+ years, and we've been through many ups and downs with legal, medical, social, & emotional changes. We can help you navigate them all.
Number 2:
Caring for Your Safety & Tips for Being “Stealth”
While it isn’t typically sustainable for a person to live “in the closet” indefinitely, we realize that many of you are not in a position yet to live as your authentic selves. Here are some helpful tips compiled from our experts and our LGBTQIA clients which may help you during the periods when your options are limited by your social environment or personal circumstances.
1.) Find Online LGBTQ Communities:
Engage in anonymous or private online spaces to connect w/ others who understand what you’re going through. Supportive forums, social media groups, or chats can provide a safe space to express yourself & gain validation.
2.) Expose Yourself to LGBTQ Media:
Consume books, movies, podcasts, & videos that reflect your identity. Seeing your experiences represented can help you feel less isolated & more validated.
3.) Personal Journal:
Journaling is a private way to explore your feelings & identity. It’s necessary to process emotions & navigate your journey at your own pace.
Pro-tip: LOCK it for extra security. Password-lock a computer doc or have a combination safe/box where you keep your personal thoughts/items
4.) Practice Affirmation Rituals:
Develop small, private rituals that affirm your identity such as, wearing a piece of jewelry or clothing that makes you feel connected to your true self. These can serve as daily reminders of who you are, even if you’re not out publicly.
Pro-tip: your thoughts are SUPER powerful! Connect with your true self mentally & avoid self-judgment/criticism.
5.) Find a Safe Ally:
If possible, confide in at least 1 person you trust who can offer support without outing you. Having a trusted ally can reduce feelings of isolation & provide a sense of safety.
6.) Self-Care Toolkit:
Prepare for stressful situations by having a go-to list of activities or items that comfort you, like a favorite playlist, a quiet walk, or a calming app. This "toolkit" can help you manage stress related to staying stealth.
7.) Consult the Experts:
Therapy is a safe & confidential way to explore these feelings & plan your future.
BUT to avoid further harm & waste $$, it is necessary to find a therapist who has verified training & experience in this area, especially in Texas!
Click the button below to contact an LGBTQIA+ specialist in Texas
For more tips on how to stay "stealth", check out this post:
Number 3:
Be Aware of Your Self-Talk & Treatment of Yourself
We can’t stress this one enough! Your brain actively molds itself and shifts your perceptions of the world based on what you say to yourself in your head. Even if you feel like no one can hear you. Even if you feel unsafe at home or in your community. You do NOT have to feel unsafe in your own body. You do not have to internalize the hate you are hearing and tell yourself you deserve it. Because you don't deserve it.
Number 4:
Focus on What’s Within Your Control
Let yourself have your feelings. Validate your experience. At the same time, try not to linger too long on the catastrophes or potential future outcomes, no matter how realistic they might be.
Instead, try to bring your mind to the present moment and exist there as much as you can. If you feel the need to take action, focus on the actionable items you can control, such as these listed below:
Donate to advocacy groups & local organizations
Volunteer w/ orgs & events supporting LGBTQ rights & awareness
Change your environment - Explore your options on this topic with your therapist. In some cases, it might be helpful to change your living situation and inner circle to promote better emotional wellbeing.
This could include:
Removing followers and unfollowing accounts on social media which are toxic or causing you distress.
Shifting your inner circle, in-person relationships to better fit your needs. Surrounding yourself with supportive, celebratory, and more like-minded people on this topic and removing or limiting toxic relationships.
Create a safe respite at home
Make your space cozy and make it your own.
Be mindful of who you live with… family, roommates, etc. Your home should be your safest space. If possible, start making plans for the future to ensure you have a peaceful sanctuary to return to everyday.
Consider Relocation - If your legal or medical rights do not fit your needs in your city or state or you do not feel safe in your social environment, consider relocating somewhere where you have a greater chance of feeling safe and supported.
Yes, this option could involve upfront moving costs, shifts to cost of living overall, or a change to the state taxes you pay. Though, keep in mind that money is only one form of currency… your safety and mental wellbeing are worth something too. Brainstorm, research, and perhaps there is a way to make it happen.
Own Your Own Voice - If appropriate for your situation, speak up! Contribute to changing the narrative about LGBTQ rights.
Tips for more effective conversation:
Shift away from specific debates like bathrooms or professional sports, instead focus the conversation on the general need to respect other human beings, regardless of whether or not one can relate personally.
Discourage actions which exercise control over another human being’s medical choices, body, personal beliefs, & personal choices which don't harmfully impact others.
Keep your tone of voice calm, even, and exert your security in yourself and your position in a level way. In these conversations, you can use phrases like:
“Personally, I prefer not to attempt to control others. I believe that everyone has the right as Americans to make their own life decisions.”
“For me, what’s most important is showing kindness & respect to others even if I don’t get it.”
Use historical facts that the person you're talking to can relate to.
Are they Christian? Note the times in history when Christians were discriminated against and express empathy for those people at that time. Express that Christians have the right to believe what they wish, and that the government & policy has no right to restrict that. The same goes for any particular group of people in the US... including the LGBTQ community.
Are they patriots? Discuss the very beginning of our country and how the people of that time fought and died for freedom for ALL. It’s been a while since middle school history class, but remember the Declaration of Independence? Remember this?
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Know when to set boundaries or end the conversation - For more tips on these topics, check out the following posts:
You control your body, thoughts, and behaviors - Remember not to give away control of yourself to others.
You can choose who to surround yourself with, which conversations to enter, and which events to attend.
You decide what you put on your own body. No one has the right to tell you how to dress or express yourself.
i.e. if we said the color purple offends us, so you "can't wear it around us", does this seem like a fair request to you?
Or in turn, is anyone discussing their cis-gender family member or friends' underwear? Or are we just telling the transwoman she can't wear a bra to the family brunch?
Pro-tip: turn the context around... if it doesn't make sense in reverse (towards the hetero-normative person), then it's not appropriate to ask of an LGBTQ person.
You can choose to give away control or to take it back. If you participate in situations where someone is making inappropriate requests of you, then you are giving them a non-verbal message that says it is "okay" to continue to make these requests of you in the future.
Some of these tips won’t be a fit for every person. Use your best judgment and listen to your body. Ask yourself, is this helping my mental health? Or is this escalating my stress?
It’s okay to work hard for something that is important to you but remember to find balance and take breaks. If you are feeling perpetually exhausted, that’s a clue that you might be over-functioning, surrounding yourself with unhealthy relationships, or doing too much of something which brings you distress.
Number 5:
Remember What This is Really About
This is about respect and kindness to others. We don’t have to believe the same things or agree. But as Americans, it is our duty to fight and protect each individual's right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”.
Discrimination, judgment, and hate towards any particular community does not foster an environment for freedom or the pursuit of happiness for that community.
Attempting to control another person's personal choices, body, way of dress, expression, etc. is not appropriate or respectful behavior.
In order to achieve positive & affirming change in our community, it's going to require each individual to demand respect for themselves. To set boundaries and communicate their needs. And to set expectations for how they are to be treated in relationships and in this country.
Building Resilience and Seeking Support
While the political climate may seem daunting, the LGBTQIA+ community has shown time and time again that resilience and solidarity are powerful tools.
Reflecting on the past, there is hope found in collective action, advocacy, and support systems that stand firm in the face of adversity. Mental health resources, legal advocacy, and community organizations continue to offer crucial support and guidance.
Preparing for What Lies Ahead
As the political landscape shifts, the LGBTQIA+ community in Texas and beyond must remain vigilant, informed, and supported. The lessons of past political climates highlight the importance of solidarity and resilience in the face of challenges. While anxiety may be on the rise, so is the commitment to advocacy, community support, and maintaining spaces where everyone can feel safe and valued.
The Mind Parlor stands as an unwavering ally, dedicated to helping LGBTQIA+ individuals navigate these times with empathy, understanding, and expert care. Whether through individual therapy or broader community initiatives, the aim is clear: to support each person in finding strength, empowerment, and hope for a future that embraces them for who they are.
How The Mind Parlor Supports the LGBTQIA+ Community
The Mind Parlor remains steadfast in its mission to provide a safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ Texans. Our specialists understand the unique challenges faced by our clients and offer personalized care to navigate times of uncertainty. With expert guidance in managing stress, trauma, and identity-related issues, we help foster resilience and empower individuals to live authentically.
While the current political climate brings challenges, the LGBTQIA+ community has always been resilient. With local advocacy groups and supportive spaces like The Mind Parlor, hope and strength are always within reach. If you’re navigating the stress of recent events, reach out for the support you deserve. You don't have to do this alone.
Resources
"Texas Name and Gender Marker Change" (Group can be found on Facebook)
An instructional group for to aide transgender Texans in pursuing name & gender marker changes.
Offers legal guidance on transgender rights in Texas.
Pro bono legal assistance for name and gender marker changes.
Coverage of the DPS policy change and its impact on the transgender community.
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