Many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) Victorians live healthy, connected, happy and positive lives, but overall LGBTI people experience poorer physical and mental health, are more likely to have problems with alcohol and other drugs, and have a higher rate of suicide. LGBTI people are also frequently subject to discrimination and can have problems accessing healthcare that’s right for them.

If you or someone you know is LGBTI and needs support, help is available … you are not alone.

Mental health services

A range of services is available specifically for LGBTI Victorians needing mental health support, and their families and friends. These include mental health counselling, resources and peer support activities.

Key providers of LGBTI mental health services in Victoria include:

• drummond street services – including Queerspace mental health and wellbeing services delivered by specialist queer and queer affirmative mental health practitioners, and QHealth – queer-affirmative drug and alcohol counselling services
• Victorian AIDS Council (VAC) – confidential, non-judgmental, counselling for members of the LGBTI community
• Switchboard Tel. (03) 9663 6733 – a peer based, volunteer-run support service for LGBTQI people and their friends, families and allies
• rainbow families Victoria – supports and promotes equality for ‘rainbow’ families (parents, carers and prospective parents who identify as lesbian, gay, bi, transgender, gender diverse or intersex) in Victoria. Read More >