Exploring identity can be a challenging task, especially if we’ve lived our lives based on “identity norms” that have been pre-determined for us such as the sex we are at birth, the kinds of toys we must play with, the types of people we’re supposed to be friends with, and the way we must act around those people. But what if these “norms” don’t align with who we truly feel we are?

As a parent, your child's journey of self-discovery and identity is one of the most pivotal and delicate moments in their life. For parents of LGBTQ+ youth, this journey can come with unique challenges and questions.

Studies show that being socially connected can ease stress, anxiety, and depression, enhance self-worth, prevent loneliness, and even add years to your life. Conversely, a lack of social connection has been linked to feelings of isolation, decreased well-being, and negative consequences on both physical and mental health.

CBT is based on the foundation that your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and physiological sensations are interconnected, and that distressing and uncomfortable thoughts and feelings can trap you in a negative cycle. This type of therapy has been found to help people of all ages, including younger children and teens.

Nearly four years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, new data reveals the severe impact on youth mental health, particularly for girls.

Motivating yourself can be hard – especially in a world where many are working from home and therefore are not engaging in different environments or prompts that increase motivation and stimulation. But motivation is essential. It’s what drives you towards your goals – therefore, developing a plan to help you start and follow through with your goals is crucial.