We need to be able to live as we identify and be loved as we are. We feel whole when we can be our true selves. But feeling different—or worse, unaccepted as you are—is a significant risk factor for mental health struggles.

The queer community is at a higher mental health risk owing to the prejudices and negativity that exist surrounding their sexual orientation and gender identity.

In honour of Pride Month and to spread awareness against the stigma associated with mental illness, myAvtar presents a dialogue session with Dr Gauthamadas Udipi, Leading Neuro Psychiatrist.

If you are a member of the LGBTQ community who is struggling or an ally of the Queer community who is looking to take action to be supportive, register today for this free session.

Titled Mental Health Challenges in the Queer Community, the hour-long interactive session will discuss the topic along these lines:

• What is the psychological impact of prejudice and discrimination?
• What is "coming out" and why is it important?
• How does someone’s identity affect mental health?
• How can we be respectful of people who identify as LGBTQ?
• What kinds of things might a person who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender go through when coming out?
• How should one respond to heterosexual friends or co-workers who feel negatively about a person who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender at an office, apartment, or in any group?
• Do you think it is ever useful to disclose one’s sexual orientation during an interview?
• How to deal with homophobic comments if they come up in an interview?
• How to show support for someone who is struggling? 

If you are a member of the LGBTQ community who is struggling or an ally of the Queer community who is looking to take action to be supportive, register today for this free session.