Why inclusive suicide support is important

This page is for service providers who would like to offer more inclusive support for LGBTQ+ communities. 

Inclusive support is important because when LGBTQ+ folk see and feel represented in support services we don’t feel so alone.  

When possible, working with our peers can give us a sense of hope and minimise feelings of isolation. 

When we feel like we belong and are not a burden, our thoughts and feelings of suicide can decrease. 

Non-inclusive support is one of many reasons why we don’t get the help we need. 

• Signs of inclusion on websites and reception areas, like Pride flags, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, posters from LGBTQ+ health services, and resources in different languages 

• Gender-affirming language in a service’s intake forms; see an example template here 

• The content of a service’s website acknowledges the experiences of LGBTQ+ people (e.g., inclusion of LGBTQ+ case studies, photos of diverse couples) 

• Offering tailored programs and resources for LGBTQ+ people 

• Employing LGBTQ+ peer workers

If you work for a service or organisation that would like to improve its LGBTQ+ inclusion, you can find resources here.