CMHA HKPR Celebrates Pride Month

Jun 3, 2025

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) joins individuals and organizations across the country to celebrate the history, courage and diversity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and Two-Spirit (2SLGBTQ+) individuals for Pride Month this June!

While Pride festivals recognize the vibrant and creative 2SLGBTQ+ communities, it’s important to note that 2SLGBTQ+ individuals continue to face specific mental health issues and barriers for accessing supports and they face higher risks for some mental health issues due to the effects of discrimination and the social determinants of health.

2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada are twice as likely to experience mental health challenges.
77 per cent of trans individuals in a recent survey reported feeling depressed in the past year.
Compared with their cisgender heterosexual peers, youth who are 2SLGBTQIA+ are at elevated risk for mental health difficulties and suicidality, with 56 per cent of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth meeting criteria for things like anxiety, depression, mania and substance use, compared with 29 per cent of cisgender heterosexual youth.
The social experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, including the impact of minority stress, access to social support and experiences of negative social interactions, may contribute to this disparity.
Rates of substance use are significantly higher in 2SLGBTQIA+ communities—frequently as a response to trauma and stigma.

When we think about Pride, our focus is on visibility, access, equity and survival.

So how can YOU be All In?

Learn about 2SLGBTQIA+ experiences, especially those at the intersection of other marginalized identities. Here are some great resources:

Local Pride Month Events: