When to Refer an LGBT person to a Mental Health Professional

Most of the LGBT people on campus you will encounter will be seeking support, advice, or information. Occasionally, you may advise an LGBT person who is experiencing a good deal of psychological distress. This may be evident in the following ways.

• When an LGBT person talks about diminished functioning in classes. When she/he has seen a drop in grades or academic performance.

• When an LGBT person can no longer cope with daily activities and responsibilities. She/he is no longer going to classes or has been late for a job and may be fired soon if this continues.

• An LGBT person expresses depressive symptoms such as: sleep disturbance, sudden weight loss or weight gain, crying spells, fatigue, loss of interest or pleasure in previous enjoyable activities, and/or inability to concentrate or complete tasks.

• An LGBT person expresses severe anxiety symptoms such as: feelings of panic, shortness of breath, headaches, sweaty palms, dry mouth, or racing thoughts.

• An LGBT person expresses suicidal thoughts or feelings.

• An LGBT person has no support. She/he has no friends or no friends to talk to about her/his sexual orientation.

• A good guideline to use if all else fails: If you are feeling overwhelmed or worried about an LGBT person, referring them to a mental health professional would probably be appropriate.

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