June is LGBT month, which means it’s time to talk about the health challenges faced by the gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, and queer communities. The LGBTQ+ community makes up about 10% of the population, which is a significant amount of people. While each has their own health challenges to face, many people in this community have to confront similar health problems. The most common health concerns facing the LGBTQ+ community are:

  1. Depression and suicide
  2. Cancer
  3. Substance abuse
  4. STIs and STDs
  5. Eating disorders
  6. HIV/AIDS

These health issues are serious enough on their own, but they are often compounded by providers who don’t provide the LGBTQ+ community with adequate or appropriate service. This can lead to an individual not getting prevention services they need to avoid these and other health problems.

LGBTQ+ Health Providers

Many people of different genders or sexual orientation feel burdened by the idea that they have to explain themselves over and over to their healthcare professionals. They also may have experienced discrimination from previous healthcare providers. These situations can lead to a person in need of care to bypass a necessary doctor’s visit – or an LGBTQ+ individual may decide against disclosing vital information that may affect their health.

Fortunately, there are ways to find LGBTQ-friendly healthcare professionals with whom any person of any gender or orientation may feel comfortable. You can talk to one of our professionals at Flow Natural Health Care for recommendations or use online resources like the GLMA.org Provider directory, Outcarehealth.org, or keep an eye on the development of the Qspaces app.

It’s also important to understand that you are not alone in your situation. If you are seeking health care and are worried that your provider won’t recognize your health needs or will discriminate based on your sexual orientation, get a recommendation from a friend, counselor, or LGBTQ+ online forum. There are healthcare providers out there who want to give you the care that you deserve.

Are you looking for a healthcare provider who understands your unique needs as a member of the LGBTQ+ community? Flow Natural Health Care provides naturopathy, counseling, Mayan massage, and more to people of all genders and sexual orientations. Contact us today to make an appointment with one of our compassionate practitioners.