Being LGBTI+ in a rural area

Growing up as an LGBTI+ person isn’t always easy, and being LGBTi+ in a small town or rural area can sometimes be even harder. Whilst some LGBTI+ young people in rural areas might have an amazing coming out experience that goes really smoothly for them, there are some specific issues that LGBTI+ young people living in rural areas might be more likely to face.

In small towns or rural areas, it is sometimes more difficult to meet other young LGBTI+ people or access information, and this can make coming out more difficult.

What can I do if I’m LGBTI+ living in a small town?

Take your time with coming out

We know how hard and stressful it can be to hide your sexual orientation or gender identity, and the rough effects this can have on your mental health and wellbeing. But don’t feel under pressure to come out if you’re in a homophobic environment. Go at your own pace and take care of your wellbeing and safety.

Talk to people you trust

It can be really hurtful to deal with homophobia or transphobia, and it’s ok to feel upset by it. If it’s getting you down, talk to a parent, friend, or teacher that you trust. If you don’t feel able to talk to someone you know, you can call Switchboard on 01 872 1055. Alternatively, you can call 081 811 1126 and let them know that you have been referred by Belong To and want to participate in the LGBTQI+ youth crisis counselling to make a free appointment with Pieta.

Go online

The internet can be an amazing place to meet other LGBTI+ young people, and the support you can get from people going through the same thing as you is invaluable. Furthermore, there are some brilliant resources online that can help educate you on LGBTI+ issues, especially with regard to your sexual health. 

Go to LGBTI+ youth groups if you can

If you’re living in a really remote area, this might be easier said than done, but there are more and more support groups out there for LGBTI+ young people in both rural and urban areas. Belong To runs a lot of youth groups for LGBTI+ young people all over the country. This might be a bit intimidating at first, but be brave – it really can make an amazing difference to your life.

Look after your mental health

There are a lot of challenges you might face as an LGBTI+ person, especially if you’re growing up in a conservative community. This can take a big toll on your mental health. Do little things that help make your day easier, and seek help if you’re struggling to cope.

Hang on in there

The most important thing to remember if you’re living in an unaccepting community is that for every person you meet who rejects you because of your sexuality or gender identity, there are many more people that will accept, love, and respect you just as you are.

Feeling overwhelmed and want to talk to someone?

• Get anonymous support 24/7 with our text message support service
• Connect with a trained volunteer who will listen to you, and help you to move forward feeling better
• Whatsapp us now or free-text SPUNOUT to 50808 to begin.
• Find out more about our text message support service

If you are a customer of the 48 or An Post network or cannot get through using the ‘50808’ short code please text HELLO to 086 1800 280 (standard message rates may apply). Some smaller networks do not support short codes like ‘50808’.