LGBTQ+ inclusion and wellbeing

Being able to bring your whole self to work matters for your mental health. For LGBTQ+ employees, that is not always straightforward, and the extra effort of managing how much of yourself to share can be genuinely tiring.

What it is

LGBTQ+ wellbeing at work involves the mental health impact of navigating identity in environments that may or may not be accepting. This can include the ongoing effort of deciding whether to disclose your identity, managing reactions from colleagues, or dealing with discrimination or exclusion. Even in accepting workplaces, years of navigating a world that is not always welcoming can leave a lasting mark on mental health, including higher rates of anxiety and low mood documented broadly in research on minority stress.

Signs to notice

• Constant vigilance about how much of yourself to reveal at work
• Exhaustion from managing pronouns, names or relationships carefully around certain people
• Avoiding social events or team activities to sidestep uncomfortable questions
• Anxiety before disclosing identity to a new colleague or manager
• Low mood or withdrawal linked to exclusion or subtle discrimination
• Difficulty trusting workplace support systems with sensitive information

What helps

• Seek out LGBTQ+ colleague networks or allies at work, where they exist
• Set your own pace for disclosure - you do not owe anyone your full story before you are ready
• Use inclusive policies your workplace offers, such as gender-neutral facilities or partner benefits
• Build a support network outside work that affirms who you are
• Address discrimination through formal HR channels when it is safe to do so
• Practice self-compassion around the extra emotional labour identity navigation requires
• Remind yourself that needing a safe, accepting environment is a reasonable expectation, not too much to ask

When to reach out for help

Reach out to a professional if minority stress, discrimination or exclusion is affecting your mental health, sleep or sense of safety at work, if you are experiencing harassment, or if you are having thoughts of self-harm linked to how you are treated because of your identity. Support that understands LGBTQ+ experience can make a real difference.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors provide confidential, affirming support for LGBTQ+ members. SADAG's Mental Health Line (011 234 4837) offers further support and referrals. South African law protects against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity - your HR department or EAP can help you understand your rights at work.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.