For many decades, LGBTQ+ people were excluded from conversations about mental health. Being sexuality and/or gender diverse was once classified as a mental illness. For generations, our identities were treated as problems to be fixed, hidden or punished. The trauma and violence of criminalisation, rejection, harmful conversion practices and social invisibility deeply affected our communities. Many faced isolation and silence.

In this historical context, it’s no surprise that LGBTQ+ people have long faced higher rates of mental distress, anxiety, depression and suicide.

But what’s often overlooked in this story is our extraordinary resilience. We built chosen families and fought for our rights. We created our own spaces for healing and joy, turning survival into shared community strengths.

This resilience is now better recognised and, increasingly, supported. In 2025, we have greater awareness of the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities. We also understand the protective power of pride, identity, culture and connection.

ACON has played a key role in supporting our communities. We provide a range of services that support mental health and well-being from a strengths-based, community-led approach.

Our services include: 

• Free or low-cost LGBTQ+ inclusive counselling
• Support coordination for people living with HIV
• Alcohol and other drugs support
• Suicide prevention peer workers and programs
• Tailored initiatives for and by trans people
• Support for those experiencing trauma and isolation

ACON also works to address discrimination, stigma, social exclusion and systemic inequalities through advocacy, peer education and policy reform. We advocate for better understanding of how these issues impact our communities.

Today, seeking help and providing community care is part of building a stronger, more connected community. Pride, self-expression and collective care are recognised not just as social ideals but as vital to our overall health and well-being.

We have come a long way—from being treated as mentally ill by the mental health system to reshaping it through our shared experiences and human rights advocacy. While challenges remain, so does our determination to thrive, not just survive.

Learn more about ACON’s mental health services and support at acon.org.au.