![]() 5% of LGBTIQ people aged 18 and over identified as lesbian in a survey of 6,835 participants.Hashtags: #LesbianVisibilityWeek #LVW21 #LwiththeT Lesbians can identify many different ways, they can be cisgender women, trans women, non-binary, gender non-conforming, intersex and many more.įor a number of reasons there is not a lot of data available on these intersections which can increase people’s vulnerability and invisibility but it is important to note the different ways lesbians might identify. It’s crucial that lesbians are represented in these areas and experience ‘affirmative visibility’ in order to feel comfortable and safe accessing care, support and resources. This isn’t just the case for media representation but is equally important in the areas of health (physical and mental) and community services. Being seen – often quite literally – can foster identity affirmation and a sense of self-worth. Many of us think of visibility as representation in the media and popular culture. It offers recovery-based peer and staff support.Lesbian visibility is crucial to health and wellbeing. Further Support:ĭorset Mind run an LGBT+ group for aged 18+, MindOut is a safe, confidential, and accepting space for LGBT people experiencing mental health issues. Space Youth Project is a Dorset Charity, providing support and young groups for LGBT+ young people. Huge thanks to our guest blogger Katie from Space Youth Project. In summary, lesbians are valid, important, and completely deserving of respect and acceptance! Our Guest Blogger Be kind to yourself, recognise your self-worth and if you are struggling, find support for your mental health/wellbeing. We support Dorset Mind in spreading the word, to look after your mental wellbeing. I’m not alone in how I feel and there are others who are just like me. There is great positivity to be found in realising this is who I love, and this is who I am. Having supportive people around you who accept your sexual identity can have a huge positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, it can be lonely and isolating, particularly in young people. There can be a sense of shame felt about having feelings of attraction for the same gender, or confusion and guilt. The pressure of coming out or keeping identity and relationships hidden can take a toll on mental health, with worry about not meeting expectations and fear of prejudice and homophobia. The media, can portray them as being over sexualised, for the benefit of the straight male audience. Moreover, Film and television, particularly reality tv, are still behind on representation, or accurate representation, of lesbian relationships. The word ‘lesbian’ can be uncomfortable for people to use or can be used as a joke or an insult. Research has shown that gay women are almost twice as unlikely to be out in the workplace as gay male colleagues. For example, there is still prejudice and misunderstanding, as well as sexist prejudice which can negatively impact mental health. ![]() There is not always an awareness of the difficulties that lesbians can face. All members of the lesbian community should be recognised, including those that are non-binary, transgender, and from marginalised communities. It’s a chance to focus on the ‘L’ of ‘LGBT+, looking at history that got us to where we are today, the present triumphs in progress, and what can be done to ensure there is full equality and acceptance. ![]() Today we celebrate Lesbian Visibility Day! This event, recognises, celebrates, and supports lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer women across the UK and beyond.
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