Headspace centres across Geelong recognise the huge role that LGBTQIA+ young people play in the community with a new video series.
Headspace Geelong, Ocean Grove and Corio launched the Out-Spoken video series this month, and it is made up of five episodes that share the stories of young people across Australia.
Headspace online peer support moderator Zoe Tizard said she felt honoured to be featured in the video series and to share her experience with people aged 12 to 25 and their families and friends.
“I want LGBTQIA+ young Australians to know they’re never alone,” she said.
“It’s OK to ask for help from your friends or family – or even professionals like Headspace.
“I found online communities, like Q-headspace, where you can remain anonymous, really great places to start learning more about my identity and to connect with other LGBTQIA+ young people.”
The series tackles the topics; of how to be your authentic self, advice for family and friends of LGBTQIA+ young people, finding connections with others in the LGBTQIA+ community, and how the LGBTQIA+ community brings joy.
Headspace Geelong’s community engagement said they were glad to be able to provide a platform for the LGBTQIA+ community.
“It’s heartening to see so many LGBTQIA+ young people know help is available and that they trust headspace to support them in tough times,” they said.
“The stories in Out-Spoken are empowering because they show us the sense of joy and pride that the LGBTQIA+ community shares.
“We want queer young people to know they are seen and loved by their communities, and we want our community to become an even more welcoming place for young people to be their authentic selves.”
LGBTQIA+ stands for people that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans (transgender or transexual), queer or questioning, intersex, asexual or any other gender, sex or sexualities that aren’t represented by letters.
The video series coincides with Sydney World Pride and Melbourne’s Midsumma festival, with Headspace featured at both events.
Young people also have the opportunity to march with Headspace at the Sydney Mardi Gras Parade regardless of where they are in Australia.
Young people can watch Out-Spoken online at headspace.org.au/lgbtiqaplus/ or contact Headspace’s counselling service on 1800 650 890.
Immediate help is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14 and the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
