‘Transitioning Out of Lockdown’ LGBTQ+ mental health event

LGBTQ+ activist Lady Phyll, queer comedian Suzi Ruffell and LGBTQ+ therapist Lorna Fulton have been announced as speakers at an LGBTQ+ mental health panel event to address concerns that mental health charities will be unable to meet the unprecedented demand for specialist LGBTQ+ care post-lockdown. Presented by Sappho Events the event, which is for LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people, marks the end of Mental Health Awareness Week and will take place tonight on Zoom, Wednesday, May 19, from 6pm.

The LGBT Foundation’s mental health crisis calls have increased by over 100% since the pandemic, and Stonewall’s research shows that over 60% of LGBTQ+ people have experienced anxiety in the last year. As the UK begins its transition out of lockdown, with England and Scotland set to ease restrictions on May 17, many are searching for ways to reconcile the stresses of a gradual increase of in-person socialising and returning to workspaces.

The free online event, open to LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people, will see the panelists open up about their own experiences with mental health during the pandemic, and discuss the pandemic’s effects on the LGBTQ+ community, especially the disproportional effect on Black people, and mental health support services.

Therapist Lorna Fulton will address re-entry anxiety and sensory overload; from feeling on edge in bigger crowds, going back into the office, getting on the tube, or feeling drained when meeting friends and family for long-awaited catch-ups. Lorna will also offer helpful ways to monitor emotional wellbeing, and tools to look after yourself before and after in-person social activity.

“Whether you’re dealing with an underlying or active mental health condition, or are interested in hearing about mental health in the LGBTQ+ community, the panel offers an accessible and welcoming environment to consider how we can access and get support as a community,” said founder of Sappho Events and chair of the panel, Maryann Wright.

Lady Phyll said: “Black LGBTQ+ people have been so disproportionately impacted by Covid-19, the lockdowns and the isolation that beating the pandemic have required. It’s also important to remember that this time likely made worse pre-existing ill mental health in our community because of what it takes for us to navigate the world as Black people.

“As the world begins to reopen, it’s important that Black LGBTQ+ people are supported meaningfully and with culturally-specific interventions that make space for the complexities of our lives and the potential for our joy.”

“I have always spoken very openly about mental health on stage, I have always found getting it out really helps me. I am delighted to be involved in this event with Lady Phyll and Lorna,” said Suzi Ruffell.

To sign up for the free online event, CLICK HERE