Identity

What are identity concerns?

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For concerns ranging from an exploration of gender and sexuality, difficulty in relationships or adjusting to a new sense of self, we are here to provide inclusive and respectful support.
Depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties and work related issues are all challenges that life can pose. For those in the LGBTQIA community, external factors such as the complexities of relationships, discrimination, bullying or harassment are additional risk factors that impact on health and wellbeing, putting those in the lesbian, gay, bi, transgender and intersex community at heightened risk of mental health challenges. 

Strategies to try now

Some techniques and positive lifestyle changes that may help us to improve our mood and feel more positive include: 
Seeking out supportive and empathetic people who offer their thoughtful and non-judgemental company
Trying to find a balance between internal strength and the support and validation from others
Identifying the times you feel at your best and ensuring you allocate time to the activities and relationships that make you the happiest
Speaking about difficulties and unknown we are having with someone we trust
Reducing alcohol and non-prescription drug intake
Creating and maintaining a daily routine

Adjustment difficulty resources

Websites

Websites

We recommend the following websites for support with identity concerns:

Black dog Institute

Digital Tools and Apps

Digital Tools and Apps

We recommend the following digital tools and apps for support with identity concerns:

Health Data

In the case of emergency call

In the case of emergency call

We recommend the following emergency services for support with identity concerns:

Emergency Wise-Institute

Same-sex attracted and transgender people have higher psychological distress and more significant levels of anxiety than their heterosexual counterparts

Frequently Asked Questions

Some simple facts to help you understand identity concerns and how you can best manage them.

How common are identity concerns

Up to 11 in 100 Australians may have a diverse sexual orientation, sex or gender identity. We know that along with a diverse sexual orientation comes an increased likelihood of mental challenges.

What are the risk factors for mental health when managing identity concerns

When struggling with identity issues, the stress and uncertainty can lead to depression, hopelessness, addiction, and more. In addition, gay and transgender people are significantly more likely to suffer verbal or physical abuse, experience homophobic bullying and potentially living with the challenge of hiding their identity in order to access services and manage social and work events. These circumstances can contribute to a worsening of already difficult emotions and create significant struggles in the enjoyment of day-to-day life.

Life after developing skills to navigate identity concerns

Working with a supportive psychologist can help to resolve questions around identity and to develop skills of resilience, reduce anxiety and stress, and assist with any new challenges as life progresses. Along the way, therapy can provide you with skills that will help toward building additional confidence and aid you to live your happiest life.

Getting Professional Help

Evidence based treatments make the biggest difference.
At Wise Institute, we have clinicians who specialise in supporting the emotional wellbeing of anyone who is processing thoughts around, or exploring, their sexual identity. Whether you are finding a new sense of self or managing relationship strains that may surface as you become more open with your identity, we can offer a non-discriminating environment to explore any issues that may arise.

 

The first step is to speak with your GP who can advise you on a psychologist near you to provide assistance.

Myths About Identity Concerns

``We know what causes sexual orientation``
Identity Concerns Myth 1
``Homosexuality is a type of mental illness that can be 'cured'``
Identity Concerns Myth 2
``People choose to be LGBTQIA``
Identity Concerns Myth 3
Treatments

We use evidence-based best practice treatments.

Our Team

Over 125 years of clinical experience.

About Us

We’ve been making a difference for over 20 years.

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Wise Institute - Hero Image
Wise Institute - Hero Image
Wise Institute - Hero Image
Wise Institute - Hero Image
Wise Institute - Hero Image