27 March 2023
Gill Callister – CEO Mind Australia
Mind Australia stands with trans and gender diverse people and communities.
We were appalled to see events that have unfolded across the country recently. Events which have platformed dangerous, ignorant and bigoted views and resulted in the resurgence of violence and discrimination towards trans and gender diverse people.
Research demonstrates that LGBTIQ+ people are at increased risk of a range of mental health problems including depression, anxiety disorders, self-harm and suicide, due to their experiences of discrimination and abuse on the basis of their sexuality and gender.
The continued virulent and discriminatory public commentary about the rights of trans and gender diverse people to simply exist has real and immediate impacts on people’s mental health and safety.
As a community, we can and must do better. Trans rights are not up for debate – they are human rights. The upholding of human rights is vital for a healthy, well and connected community.
If this article raises concerns for you, please call Qlife on 1800 184 527), Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islanders can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76) a 24/7 national crisis support telephone service staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Aftercare is a free to access service funded by the Victorian government. Mind’s Aftercare service is an LGBTIQA+ team consisting of mental health peer support workers, counsellors and psychologists who understand the issues faced by the community based on their own lived experience of thoughts of suicide. For more information about Mind’s Aftercare service in Victoria, email [email protected] or phone: 1300 286 463. Please note: this phone number is staffed during business hours.