Championing LGBTQ+ mental health beyond Pride month

In a spirited call to action, a leading mental health charity based in Newcastle is making an impassioned plea to organisations both within the region and across the country.

Everyturn Mental Health, a prominent player in the mental health landscape, is advocating for a year-round commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, a commitment that goes beyond the celebratory confines of Pride month.

At the helm of this initiative is Adam Crampsie, the chief executive of Everyturn Mental Health. The organisation, responsible for overseeing an array of NHS services in the Newcastle area as well as on a national scale, is spearheading efforts to address the inequalities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. The goal is to foster an environment of inclusivity, understanding, and support, irrespective of the calendar month.

As someone who identifies as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community himself, Adam Crampsie is acutely aware of the challenges that often accompany seeking mental health support. The struggle to access assistance without fear of judgment or discrimination can render the journey towards better mental well-being an isolating one. Hence, the urgent need for sustained and unwavering support, transcending the fleeting celebrations of Pride Month.

"As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, I know all too well how difficult and isolating it can feel to try to get the support you need without feeling like you’re being judged," affirms Adam Crampsie. This personal insight underscores the significance of fostering a safe and empathetic environment for LGBTQ+ individuals to seek the help they need without fear or hesitation.

Everyturn Mental Health is taking tangible steps to address these concerns, not only through vocal advocacy but also through actionable initiatives. Adam Crampsie shares, "We are actively trying to tackle inequalities here at Everyturn, through initiatives like our employee network groups and Gender Identity Policy." These initiatives serve as a testament to the organization's commitment to creating spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can access support without apprehension.

The endeavour, however, extends beyond the confines of Everyturn Mental Health. The urgent call to organisations within the North East and beyond is a call to embrace the spirit of Pride throughout the year. It's a plea for organisations to recognise that the journey toward equality and inclusivity is a continuous one, deserving attention and action beyond the annual commemorative month.

Counselling, as a cornerstone of mental health support, stands poised as an integral component in this effort. For LGBTQ+ individuals, finding a counsellor who understands the nuances of their experiences can be transformative. These professionals provide a confidential and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their emotions, confront challenges, and embark on a path to healing.

In a landscape where mental health awareness is gaining momentum, the appeal from Everyturn Mental Health serves as a poignant reminder that support cannot be confined to a single month. It underscores the importance of organisations, therapists, and communities rallying together to create an environment where LGBTQ+ individuals receive unwavering, compassionate, and year-round support.

In the words of Adam Crampsie, "We have so much more to do to ensure that LGBTQIA+ people receive the excellent, compassionate support they deserve." This clarion call is an opportunity for all of us to come together, recognising that mental health support should never be bound by time but rather guided by empathy, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.