by Quinn McNeely, BSN, RN  |  PDG Nurse Care Manager

Happy Pride Month! Every June, people around the world recognize the struggles and celebrate the achievements of the LGBTQ+ community, promote acceptance, and advocate for equal rights. 

Beyond the parades and festivities, Pride Month is also a great opportunity to educate ourselves about important concepts related to gender and sexuality. Understanding these terms not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances mental well-being by allowing individuals to live as their authentic selves. To help, we’ve put together a quick list of key terms you should know, as well as other ways you can support the LGBTQ+ community during Pride and all year long!

Key Terms to Know

Gender Identity: This refers to a person’s deeply felt internal experience of gender, which may or may not correspond with the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender identity can include being male, female, a blend of both, neither, or other identities such as non-binary or genderqueer. It’s an intrinsic sense of who you are. 

Biological Sex: Often referred to as assigned sex at birth, biological sex is based on physical attributes such as chromosomes, hormone levels, and reproductive/sexual anatomy. Categories typically include male, female, and intersex.

Gender Expression: This is how a person outwardly shows their gender, through behavior, clothing, hairstyle, voice, and body characteristics. Gender expression is a spectrum and can vary widely from person to person.

Sexual Orientation: This term describes who a person is attracted to emotionally, romantically, or sexually. It includes categories like heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, and more. It’s important to note that someone’s sexual orientation is not related to their gender identity. 

Cisgender: A term for people whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth.

Transgender: A term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Why Understanding These Terms Matters

Regardless of our sexual orientation or gender identity, most of us have felt alone or misunderstood at some point in our lives. We know that by understanding these terms, we can work together to foster a more inclusive society where everyone can feel seen and respected. Together, we can break down the stigma, prejudice, and stereotypes that can contribute to feelings of isolation and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, and lead to higher rates of self harm, especially among LGBTQ+ youth. 

The Mental Health Benefits of Self-Understanding

Embracing and understanding one’s gender identity and sexual orientation can significantly impact mental health. Here’s how:

Self-Acceptance: Knowing and accepting your true self reduces internal conflict and increases self-esteem. When people feel comfortable with who they are, they are less likely to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Authentic Living: Living in a way that aligns with your true self fosters a sense of authenticity. This leads to greater overall happiness and life satisfaction, as individuals are free to express themselves without fear of judgment.

Support and Community: When people understand their identity, they are more likely to seek out and connect with supportive communities. Being part of a group that shares similar experiences can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Reduced Stress: Understanding and accepting one’s identity can reduce the stress that comes from hiding or suppressing who you are. This reduction in stress can have positive effects on physical health as well.

Empowerment: Knowledge is power. Understanding your identity equips you with the tools to advocate for yourself and others. It fosters resilience and empowers you to navigate the world confidently.

How to Support Others

Being a supportive ally during Pride Month and beyond involves active listening, using inclusive language, and educating yourself and others. Here are a few steps you can take:

Educate Yourself: Learn about the different aspects of gender and sexuality. Resources like books, documentaries, and reputable websites can provide valuable insights. Mental Health America is a great place to start! 

Use Inclusive Language: Respect people’s chosen names and pronouns. This simple act validates their identity and shows respect. If you make a mistake and use the wrong pronouns or name, apologize to the person and move on, using the correct pronouns and/or name going forward.

Be Open and Non-Judgmental: Create a safe space where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgment. When possible, support LGBTQ+ businesses, artists, creators, and more. 

Support LGBTQ+ Rights: Advocate for policies and practices that promote equality for all and protect against discrimination. Start by finding out how your state’s policies on LGBTQ+ equality rate here.

Pride Month is a celebration of diversity, acceptance, and love. By understanding and respecting the nuances of gender identity, biological sex, gender expression, and sexual orientation, we contribute to a more inclusive world. Embracing these concepts not only supports the LGBTQ+ community but also promotes community and mental well-being by allowing everyone to live their truth. As we celebrate this month, let’s commit to continued learning, empathy, and support for all individuals, all year long!