Coping Strategies for LGBTQIA+ Individuals Living in a Non-Affirming Environment
If you’re an LGBTQIA+ individual who lives in a non-affirming environment, it can feel like every day is a struggle to honor your own identity. Perhaps you grew up in an area where LGBTQIA+ individuals often faced discrimination. Now that you’ve come out, your relationships with old friends, acquaintances, and coworkers have become strained.
Sometimes, economic hardship can force LGBTQIA+ people into prejudiced environments. For example, in order to save money, you might have had to move in with family members who have never accepted your identity. Maybe you took on a new job out of desperation. Yet you've realized that your coworkers frequently make rude remarks about LGBTQIA+ people while you’re in earshot.
It’s not easy to cope with living in a non-affirming environment, especially if you’re not able to easily leave. These tips can help you keep your head held high, despite the attitudes of those around you.
Set Strict Boundaries
Even confident people can feel like wilting when they are constantly exposed to disparaging remarks and relentless prejudice. We’re social creatures. Therefore, it’s only natural to desire acceptance from your community. Rejection can hurt deeply.
To protect yourself emotionally, practice setting boundaries. Decide which topics you’re willing to discuss with certain people, and which subjects you do not want to debate. Remember that you have the right to leave conversations that you don’t want to participate in.
Create a Financial Plan
Many LGBTQIA+ people end up stuck in non-affirming environments because they don’t have the financial resources to live independently of their families. Additionally, if you’re in a tough job market, you might feel nervous about leaving your role at a non-affirming workplace.
Setting up a budget plan and sticking to it can help you take small, continuous steps towards financial independence. Consider which actions you can take to save for your future, and determine specific, realistic savings goals. Knowing that you have the power to establish your independence down the line can help you keep your chin up on tough days.
Invest in Your Passions
Spending more time focused on the hobbies and passions that light you up can bring you fulfillment and meaning in this difficult chapter of life. Carve out time to read, watch your favorite films, write in a journal, draw or paint, dance, play an instrument, garden, bake, or any other activity that lifts your mood.
Creative hobbies and pursuits allow you to think beyond your immediate environment and find solace in personal expression. Artistic and athletic activities can be a balm during stressful times.
Stay Open to New Social Connections
You do not have to limit yourself to socializing with your current friends and relatives. Think outside the box, and check out local meet up groups, especially if they’re associated with LGBTQIA+-affirming organizations. You might meet some people you click with!
If you’re in an area with minimal opportunities to socialize with other LGBTQIA+ individuals, or people who simply affirm your identity and orientation, you might be able to connect with supportive groups online. While online socialization doesn’t quite replace getting together with friends in person, it can certainly ease your sense of isolation.
Consider Talking to an Affirming Therapist
Sharing your feelings with an affirming therapist who accepts you as you are can help you build your self-worth. If you live in a non-affirming area, connecting with a therapist who will never disparage or question your identity allows you to work towards personal growth in a safe environment.
–
If you’re feeling isolated in a non-affirming environment as an LGBTQIA+ individual, working with a therapist can help you practice self-compassion. We invite you to schedule a consultation to learn more about our LGBTQIA+-inclusive therapy services.