Canada’s PRIDE began as protests and riots, a resistance against discrimination and criminalizing. In 1973, the first PRIDE week was held across major cities in Canada. That same year, homosexuality was removed as a disorder in the American Psychiatric Associations diagnostic manual of mental disorders. Psychiatry, psychology, and the practice of mental health has a long history of pathologizing queer and gender diverse identities. Today the views of researchers and practitioners have largely shifted. PRIDE in identity and community is seen as a strong protective factor for 2SLGBTQIA+ mental health.
Celebrating PRIDE and taking pride in our identities are important components for building resilience, strong community, a positive view of oneself, and support systems. Having a stronger connection to community can have positive mental health impacts. A positive perception of yourself and 2SLGBTQIA+ identity can also benefit mental health. The collectivity of PRIDE is an important aspect in developing stronger self-perceptions, connections, and community. Attempts to divide the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have been on the rise, but the collectivity and inclusivity of the community is a strength and provides support to maintain our mental health and wellbeing.
Openness and identity
A recent study found that openness or being “out” has benefits and costs to our mental health. The more open a person is about their identity, the more likely they can form community connections, promoting mental health and access to support. However, being open about your identity can also create greater risk for discrimination, negatively impacting mental health. Researchers found that openness increased the importance of 2SGBTQIA+ identity to a person and that overall, the benefits of openness on mental health outweighed the costs. Having a strong positive view of ourselves and our identities are important parts of our mental health, making PRIDE an important event to promote acceptance.
Making the most from PRIDE
Everyone celebrates PRIDE in their own way. If there are PRIDE festivals in your community, attending events or participating in PRIDE activities that foster connections with other community members and promote self-expression may be the most beneficial. Having the opportunities to build connections, support networks, and allow yourself to express and affirm your identity can help bolster mental health. Many communities in Canada, especially in rural areas, may not have PRIDE events, but there are still great ways to benefit from a sense of community and connection. Some PRIDE organizations host online events and have support programs to make PRIDE more accessible. Consider getting involved in the advocacy behind PRIDE, including advocating for better access to inclusive, affirming, and accessible mental health services. You can also share 2SLGBTQIA+ mental health services this PRIDE.
Having pride in our community and in ourselves can support our mental health and is just another reason to celebrate PRIDE this year.
Photo by Gotta Be Worth It
