Born This Way Foundation, in partnership with Hopelab, Bard Early College, CenterLink, We Embody Lab at the University of New Haven, and the Nebraska Evaluation & Research Center, created Support LGBTQ+ Young People: A Guide for Families to Listen, Learn, and Act to help families better support the LGBTQ+ young people in their lives.
This guide is grounded in research and insights directly from LGBTQ+ young people and adult experts, including educators, mental health professionals, researchers, and LGBTQ+ center leaders. It offers practical, affirming steps that families can take to build safer, more supportive environments, especially when it comes to identity, mental health, and online communities.
Below are the key resources highlighted in the guide:
- “Without It, I Wouldn’t Be Here Today”: LGBTQ+ Young People’s Experiences in Online Spaces: Research report by Hopelab and Born This Way Foundation exploring the essential role online spaces play in the lives of LGBTQ+ young people. It provides a deeper dive into the findings that informed the resource guide.
- How to Practice Active Listening: A practical guide to improve listening skills and create space for honest conversation.
- Pronouns Fact Sheet: A helpful explainer on the importance of using and respecting pronouns, from the APA’s Division 44.
- Family Acceptance Project: Research and resources for caregivers seeking to affirm LGBTQ+ youth in ways aligned with their faith, cultural, or personal values.
- The Coming Out Handbook: A supportive guide for LGBTQ+ young people exploring or sharing their identity, from The Trevor Project.
- PFLAG Parent Support Groups: A nationwide network where caregivers can connect, learn, and grow in their support of LGBTQ+ loved ones.
- Be There Certificate: A free, online mental health course from Jack.org and Born This Way Foundation that helps you learn how to recognize when someone is struggling and how to offer meaningful support.
- Mental Health and Self-Care Resources: Visit our Find Help page for evidence-based self-care tips and mental health tools.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking for new ways to show up for the LGBTQ+ young people in your life, these resources can help you take meaningful, informed action. Your support matters more than you know and you don’t have to do it alone.
For more tools and support, visit bornthisway.foundation/get-help-now.
