Growing up can be hard. Whether you identify as LGBTQIA+ or are questioning how you feel, you’ll want a network of support. You might face challenges at home, at school, or in the community. Youth camps and support groups can connect you to people who care. Mental health counselors and housing programs can help, too.
If you’re a parent or guardian of an LGBTQIA+ youth, The Coming Out Handbook can help. This guide can help you understand gender and sexual identity. Your family might benefit from community groups and advocacy programs. They promote the well-being and inclusion of LGBTQIA+ youth.
Find a doctor who understands
If you need a new doctor, explore our provider network. Your coverage will depend on the terms and conditions of your specific plan.
How to cope with bullying or harassment
Bullying is an unfortunate reality for many school-age children. If you think your child is a target, in person or online, consult these resources.
STOMP Out Bullying
Gives resources and support for young people facing bullying, including a HelpChat Crisis Line. Visit STOMPOutBullying.org.
StopBullying.gov
Offers information on preventing bullying and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth and families. Visit StopBullying.gov.
Additional Resources
Gay-straight alliances (GSA)
Your child’s school may already have a GSA. This is a student-run or community-based club that gathers LGBTQIA+ and allied youth. These clubs create safe spaces for students to discuss sexual orientation and gender identity issues. If your child’s school doesn’t have one, the ACLU and Genders & Sexualities Network have guides on how to start one.
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
Supports LGBTQIA+ youth and their families, and shares tips on handling bullying. Visit PFLAG.org.
The Trevor Project Provides crisis help and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth, including bullying support. They also publish The Coming Out Handbook. Visit the TrevorProject.org.
< Return to LGBTQIA+ health overview
Customer service can help you get the care you need. Call the number on the back of your Blue Shield member ID card. Our representatives can help you find providers who understand LGBTQIA+ needs. They'll explain coverage, give guidance around preventive screenings, and more.
Findhelp offers resources that are either free or reduced cost. Resources include financial help, food pantries, and medical care. Search by ZIP code and then enter “LGBTQIA+” into the next search bar.
LGBT National Help Center
(888) 843-4564
Coming Out Support
(888) 688-5428
Youth (age 25 and younger)
(800) 246-7743
Senior (age 50+)
(888) 234-7243
One-to-one online chat
Trans Lifeline
(877) 565-8860
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or Text “START” to 988
The Trevor Project for Youth: Reach a Counselor
(866) 488-7386
Text “START” to 678678
Domestic Abuse
(800) 799-7233
Text “START” to 88788
Unless stated, certain resources linked or described above are provided by third-party entities, independent of Blue Shield. The opinions expressed by third parties through interactive features of the site are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of Blue Shield.
All information provided on this website is intended only for informational purposes and for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment or for the care that patients receive from their providers. Nothing on this site is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your provider before beginning any new treatment.
