Celebrating LGBT Pride Month


President Obama recently declared that June will be celebrated as LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) Pride Month!  In honor of this special month, RCBM would like to take this opportunity to express our views on mental health and sexuality.

RCBM feels strongly that every person should be free to BE and LOVE who they wish.  Forcing someone to stifle their true self can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and even suicidal thoughts.  As members of families and society at large, we are responsible for creating a supportive, open atmosphere to embrace individuals coming out of the closet or going through gender identity struggles. 

There is support for anyone in need of it!  If you are a parent or a friend having a hard time accepting your loved one's sexuality, there is support for you.  PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) offers supportive groups and resources.  Visit www.pflag.org for more information.  If you are questioning your sexuality or gender, or having a hard time coming out of the closet, the LGBT National Help Center is a wonderful resource (http://www.glnh.org/index2.html).

The moral of the story is, we promote FREEDOM, TOLERANCE, and ACCEPTANCE for all, and we encourage you to do the same.  Mental health can only be achieved and maintained when individuals are free from the burden of hiding who they truly are!