Posted June 2025 – AromasUK

Let’s be real: sometimes life is heavy. And for many LGBTQ+ people, mental health struggles don’t just appear out of nowhere — they grow from years of navigating judgement, rejection, silence, or just… not being seen.

But here’s the thing: supporting LGBTQ+ mental health doesn’t always mean delivering big speeches or posting rainbow squares in June. Sometimes it’s quieter. Smaller. More real.

So here are a few ways you can show up — without making it a whole thing.

👂 1. Check In Without Making It Awkward

You don’t have to launch into a “how’s your mental health?” deep dive. A simple “How are you, really?” goes a long way — especially when you actually listen to the answer.

Sometimes, people just need to be heard — not solved.

💬 2. Validate Queer Experiences

Whether it’s dating app burnout, family weirdness, or navigating hookup culture with grace (or without), queer people often get brushed off. Don’t.

You don’t have to understand every detail — just believe them. Say “Yeah, that sounds like a lot,” or “That makes sense.” No need for TED Talks. Just kindness.

🛑 3. Respect Boundaries (Even When You Mean Well)

Supporting someone doesn’t mean pushing them to open up or “be positive.” Let people have bad days. Let them cancel plans. Let them go quiet. Support means letting people be as they are — not as we need them to be.

💅 4. Make Space, Not Noise

Whether it’s inviting someone into your circle, giving them room to be themselves, or just not assuming anything about their identity — making space is powerful.

You don’t need a badge that says “safe space.” Just act like one.

❤️ 5. Celebrate the Joy, Too

Not every conversation has to be about trauma. Talk about queer joy, community wins, your friend’s new tattoo, or the chaotic brilliance of a chosen family brunch.

Supporting mental health isn’t always serious — sometimes it’s laughing at memes and sending “you up?” texts at 11pm just to say hey.

Final Thought

Being there for LGBTQ+ friends, family — or yourself — doesn’t have to be grand or perfect. Just real. Just consistent.

We see you. We’re with you. And if all else fails, put on some music, light your favourite room aroma (😉), and breathe.