Urgent Help
Guide Line
What's on
Donate
  • Home
  • About us
    • Vision and values
    • Meet the staff
    • Meet the trustees
    • Meet our clients
    • Privacy
    • Feedback
  • Support for you
    • Urgent help (The Sanctuary)
    • Telephone helpline & live chat (Guide-Line)
    • Well-being groups for adults
    • Evening 1:1 support
    • Hearing voices
    • Befriending support for older adults (Community Companions)
    • Support for children & young people (Know Your Mind)
  • What’s on
  • Self-help
    • Coronavirus
    • Mind Guides
    • A-Z of mental health
    • Recommended resources
    • Useful organisations
  • Our training
  • Get involved
    • Volunteer
    • Community Companions
    • Job vacancies
    • Membership
  • Support us
    • Mind in Bradford Business Appeal
      • Business Appeal Supporters
    • Donate
    • Send a Hug
    • Gifts in Wills
    • Fundraise
      • 2.6 Challenge
      • Virtual Fundraising
      • Challenge yourself
      • Corporate fundraising
    • Events
    • Other Ways to Support
  • News
    • News
    • Blog
    • Write Mind
  • Contact us
Mind in Bradford

Kenburgh House    
28 Manor Row 
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD1 4QU

Guide-Line wellbeing support 08001 884 884. General enquiries 01274 730815 or email
[email protected]
Copyright © 2018 C27 Media
en English▼
X
ar Arabicbn Bengalizh-CN Chinese (Simplified)hr Croatiancs Czechen Englishfr Frenchde Germangu Gujaratihi Hindiit Italianpl Polishpa Punjabiru Russianes Spanishur Urdu
Guide-Line wellbeing support 08001 884 884. General enquiries 01274 730815 or email [email protected]
Urgent Help
Guide Line
What's on
Donate
  • Home
  • About us
    • Vision and values
    • Meet the staff
    • Meet the trustees
    • Meet our clients
    • Privacy
    • Feedback
  • Support for you
    • Urgent help (The Sanctuary)
    • Telephone helpline & live chat (Guide-Line)
    • Well-being groups for adults
    • Evening 1:1 support
    • Hearing voices
    • Befriending support for older adults (Community Companions)
    • Support for children & young people (Know Your Mind)
  • What’s on
  • Self-help
    • Coronavirus
    • Mind Guides
    • A-Z of mental health
    • Recommended resources
    • Useful organisations
  • Our training
  • Get involved
    • Volunteer
    • Community Companions
    • Job vacancies
    • Membership
  • Support us
    • Mind in Bradford Business Appeal
      • Business Appeal Supporters
    • Donate
    • Send a Hug
    • Gifts in Wills
    • Fundraise
      • 2.6 Challenge
      • Virtual Fundraising
      • Challenge yourself
      • Corporate fundraising
    • Events
    • Other Ways to Support
  • News
    • News
    • Blog
    • Write Mind
  • Contact us

Recent Blogs

  • Family and friends talk about coping and fundraising in memory of 19-year-old
  • Ian’s blog: Monday Blues
  • Ian’s blog: Seriously, let’s talk!
  • Ian’s blog: Finding compassion for yourself is a must
  • Ian’s blog: I coped but when lockdown was lifted, anxiety swept over me

Blog Archive

  • February 2021
  • December 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020

If we continue to believe that Pride is all rainbows and happiness, we’re missing the point

Love and celebrate differences every day of the year, in whatever way you can. Solidarity can mean so much, and may just save someone’s life, writes Tian.

For me, pride month doesn’t generally provoke feelings of pride. Rainbow adorned windows and profit-driven companies selling pride products, while doing nothing every other day of the year, feels empty and exploitative. The rise in LGBTQ+ representation is often tokenistic; we’re a trope or a cliché. Rarely are queer lives portrayed as ordinary.

I can’t recall the last time a straight friend asked me how a public anti-queer tragedy or event might have impacted my mental health. I’m talking about the Orlando shootings, anti-LGBTQ+ parents protesting outside schools across the UK and lesbians being beaten up on buses. It’s seen as an anomaly and disconnected from the queer people we know and love.

From the moment I started to be tentatively open about my sexuality, I have experienced homophobic prejudice and discrimination ranging from gaslighting to verbal abuse and even physical assault.

Indeed, it is sickening yet sadly unsurprising to note that over 1 in 5 lesbians experienced a hate crime in the last year, and yet “lesbian” was the most viewed category on PornHub. Further, one in three LGBTQ+ people of colour have experienced a hate crime based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity in the last year.

When I came out to my mum, in my mid-twenties, she wrote me a letter citing all the bible verses she believes condemn homosexuality, whilst reassuring me of her unconditional love and acceptance. I cannot even begin to explain the pain I’ve experienced as a result of being repeatedly told that my sexuality is a sin, unnatural, an abomination or a perversion. And the accompanying silence from people of faith. Personal experiences aside, the UK government are yet to ban gay conversion therapy, and young LGBTQ+ people of faith are more likely to take their lives, because of familial and institutional rejection. I’d recommend the films Prayers for Bobby and Boy Erased for some understanding (trigger warning for suicide and self harm in both films), and the Luke 7:1–10 bible verse in which Jesus heals the centurion’s gay lover, for an alternative perspective.

While pride month is about positivity and recognition of the impact LGBTQ+ people have had on the world, it is also about the ongoing struggles, prejudice and discrimination we face in the UK and across the world every single day. It is important for our friends, family and allies to know that comments undermining or ignoring these experiences, ill-thought micro-aggressions, assumptions and an unwillingness to attempt understanding, can hugely compound feelings of otherness, worthlessness and low self-esteem. I cannot overstate the difference love, support, inclusion, understanding and unconditional acceptance from friends and family makes when it comes to coping with these traumatizing and ‘othering’ experiences.

Pride has been positive for me inasmuch as I feel I can occupy space and be around people who get it and who accept me unconditionally, and do not question my existence as a queer person. I’m grateful to everyone who has recognised my experience as a queer person, and to everyone who has loved me because of – rather than in spite of – my sexuality. I respect my straight friends who check in, challenge micro-aggressions and blatant homophobia and I’m indebted to the babes in my life who have shown me what love and expression and belonging feels like, particularly at Uni. And to my wonderful, beautiful, inspiring partners.

So how can you show your support this pride month?

Check in on people. Ask them more than once if they are doing okay, like you would with a friend who is struggling with their mental health. Do the research. Do something about the disparities. Employing a couple of queer people isn’t enough. Having a gay friend does not mean you are incapable of harbouring prejudiced thoughts. Don’t just go to Pride to dance with drag queens; go to support your queer friends and family. Make it clear you are an ally. Use your position of privilege to elevate queer voices and empower queer people. Stand against family and friends who reinforce ignorance and hatred, even if it’s “just a joke”. Recognise that all LGBTQ+ people are unique individuals and our experiences of being LGBTQ+ vary greatly. Challenge people who say that being gay is a choice. Ask your friends and family what they need and how you can support them. Love and celebrate differences every day of the year, in whatever way you can. Solidarity can mean so much, and may just save someone’s life.

To borrow a slightly amended quote from a book I’ve been reading, too often, “we only publish the smiles and the [rainbows], censoring sadness. It just doesn’t look good on [Facebook]”.

But if we continue to believe that Pride is all rainbows and happiness, we’re missing the point.

Author: Lucy Clews
Posted on: 18th June 2020

Mental Health Directory

Find a vast database of local organisations which offer support and advice Find out more

Guide-Line

Guide-Line is our confidential telephone and online support service for adults and children Find out more

What's On

Click through to our events calendar find out what's happening at Mind in Bradford Events Calendar

Latest Updates

Follow Mind in Bradford on your favourite social network

Facebook

Mind in Bradford

13 hours ago

Mind in Bradford
Over the last year, we've worked hard to expand and develop our Guide-Line telephone helpline service.💛 In March, we opened up the service to anyone of any age (previously only for those 18+).💛 In April, we extended the opening hours from 12pm-9pm to 12pm-12am.💛 In May, we launched a live chat so people can talk to our Guide-Line team online.💛 In October, the service changed to a freephone number.If you need support with your mental health, our Guide-Line team is here for you - find out more at www.mindinbradford.org.uk/support-for-you/guide-line/ ... See MoreSee Less

Photo

View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Mind in Bradford

17 hours ago

Mind in Bradford
This #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay, we want to share some information around what self-harm is, why someone might hurt themselves, and how to seek support if you need it.Swipe through the cards to learn more ➡️If you need support, take a look at Mind's list of resources and services > www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/useful-contacts/Please share to raise awareness 💙 ... See MoreSee Less

Photo

View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Mind in Bradford

19 hours ago

Mind in Bradford
We are offering free training to local Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) staff around severe mental illness and physical health checks.People living with severe mental illness face significant health inequalities in terms of their physical health.The aim of the training is to explore these inequalities and consider how the VCS can support people and contribute to reducing these inequalities.There are four training sessions across March and April.For more information and to book, visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/serious-mental-illness-smi-training-tickets-141725848829 ... See MoreSee Less

Serious Mental Illness (SMI) Training

www.eventbrite.co.uk

SMI VCS Training
View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Mind in Bradford

2 days ago

Mind in Bradford
If you are experiencing any kind of loss or grief, such as loss of employment or loss of a loved one, local services are open and here to help. You can call Guide-Line on 08001 884 884 or talk to the team via live chat and they will help you get the support you need. Reach out for help if you need it - we are here for you 💙www.mindinbradford.org.uk/support-for-you/guide-line/ ... See MoreSee Less

Photo

View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Mind in Bradford

2 days ago

Mind in Bradford
Those of us who identify as LGBTIQ+ are more likely to experience a mental health problem. For many, the pandemic may have made things more difficult.We may struggle to access services. We may feel more isolated or face discrimination from those we've had to live with.As #LGBTHistoryMonth draws to a close, we want to remind you that we always stand in solidarity with all LGBTIQ+ people who experience mental health problems, past and present.If you’re finding things difficult, Mind has got lots of advice and support at mind.org.uk/LGBTIQ ... See MoreSee Less

Photo

View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Twitter

Mind in BradfordFollow

Avatar
AvatarMind in Bradford@MindinBradford·
16h

The support of families who have lost a loved one is so greatly appreciated by all at Mind in Bradford💙

There has been an increased demand for #mentalhealth support due to the pandemic, and this will help us to support anyone who needs us in these challenging times.

Reply on Twitter 1366357649390985217Retweet on Twitter 13663576493909852173Like on Twitter 13663576493909852177Twitter 1366357649390985217
AvatarMind in Bradford@MindinBradford·
17h

This #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay, we want to share some information around what self-harm is, why someone might hurt themselves, and how to seek support if you need it.

If you need support, take a look at @MindCharity's list of resources > https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/useful-contacts/

Please #RT 💙

3
Reply on Twitter 1366342636311875585Retweet on Twitter 13663426363118755851Like on Twitter 13663426363118755852Twitter 1366342636311875585
AvatarMind in Bradford@MindinBradford·
17h

Over the last year, we've worked hard to expand and develop our Guide-Line telephone helpline service, in our important aim to help anyone needing #MentalHealth and #Wellbeing support.

Read the thread to see how Guide-Line has grown ⬇️

Reply on Twitter 1366342544964132868Retweet on Twitter 13663425449641328682Like on Twitter 13663425449641328682Twitter 1366342544964132868
AvatarMind in Bradford@MindinBradford·
19h

We are offering free training to local Voluntary and Community Sector staff around severe mental illness (SMI) and the health inequalities people living with SMI face.

For more information and to book, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/serious-mental-illness-smi-training-tickets-141725848829

#Bradford #Airedale #Wharfedale #Craven

Reply on Twitter 1366312413788844036Retweet on Twitter 13663124137888440361Like on Twitter 13663124137888440363Twitter 1366312413788844036
AvatarMind in Bradford@MindinBradford·
28 Feb

If you are experiencing any kind of #loss or #grief, such as loss of employment or loss of a loved one, we are here for you.

You can call #GuideLine on 08001 884 884 or talk to the team via live chat for support.

Reach out for help if you need it 💙

https://www.mindinbradford.org.uk/support-for-you/guide-line/

Reply on Twitter 1366055699889987593Retweet on Twitter 1366055699889987593Like on Twitter 13660556998899875931Twitter 1366055699889987593
Load More...

Instagram

mindinbradford

We help people experiencing mental or emotional health problems across Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven. We're here for you.

Mind in Bradford
Over the last year, we've worked hard to expand an Over the last year, we've worked hard to expand and develop our Guide-Line telephone helpline service.

💛 In March, we opened up the service to anyone of any age (previously only for those 18+).
💛 In April, we extended the opening hours from 12pm-9pm to 12pm-12am.
💛 In May, we launched a live chat so people can talk to our Guide-Line team online.
💛 In October, the service changed to a freephone number.

If you need support with your mental health, our Guide-Line team is here for you - find out more via the 'Support For You' link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #MentalHealthSupport #GuideLine
This #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay, we want to share som This #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay, we want to share some information around what self-harm is, why someone might hurt themselves, and how to seek support if you need it.

Swipe through the cards to learn more ➡️

If you need support, take a look at @mindcharity's list of resources and services > https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/useful-contacts/

Please share to raise awareness 💙
If you are experiencing any kind of loss or grief, If you are experiencing any kind of loss or grief, such as loss of employment or loss of a loved one, we are open and here to help. 

You can call Guide-Line on 08001 884 884 or talk to the team via live chat and they will help you get the support you need. 

Reach out for help if you need it - we are here for you 💙

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #GuideLine #Loss #Grief #Bereavement #MentalHealthSupport #TelephoneHelpline
Those of us who identify as LGBTIQ+ are more likel Those of us who identify as LGBTIQ+ are more likely to experience a mental health problem. For many, the pandemic may have made things more difficult.

We may struggle to access services. We may feel more isolated or face discrimination from those we've had to live with.

As #LGBTHistoryMonth draws to a close, we want to remind you that we always stand in solidarity with all LGBTIQ+ people who experience mental health problems, past and present.

If you’re finding things difficult, Mind has got lots of advice and support - check the link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #LBTIQ+ #LGBTHM21
This week, we heard that the limits on numbers at This week, we heard that the limits on numbers at weddings, christenings and funerals are set to continue for many more months.

It's a real shame if you can't be at a loved one's special occasion. 

For now, you could Send a Hug to show that you're thinking of them and look forward to all the hugs to come in the future 🤗

#SendAHug via the link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #VirtualHugs #StayConnected
After 19-year-old Ethan Nutton passed away unexpec After 19-year-old Ethan Nutton passed away unexpectedly, family and friends found that talking together was a way to cope with the difficult and unpredictable days, weeks and months which followed.

Ethan's mum, Mandie, said: “We sat as a family each night talking it through. It’s very easy to go into your room. I think it was that openness that helped us as a family."

Read more about how the family coped with their loss on our blog, including how they raised an incredible £21,000 for us in memory of Ethan 💙 

https://www.mindinbradford.org.uk/family-and-friends-talk-about-coping-and-fundraising-in-memory-of-19-year-old/

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #Bereavement #Fundraising
Do something creative this weekend - you could coo Do something creative this weekend - you could cook your favourite food but with a twist, or find a new way to get active and move your body 💙

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #Wellbeing #PositiveThoughts
The @bradfordlitfest is hosting a series of creati The @bradfordlitfest is hosting a series of creative writing workshops for registered Mind in Bradford clients!

Renowned spoken word artist @homeofpolar will lead the workshops alongside our well-being practitioners.

During the workshops, participants will explore community and social issues through shared experiences and dialogue and learn creative tools that will help them to better communicate and express their stories.

There are limited places available and they will be filled on a first come first served basis.

For more info and to book your place, visit the link in our bio. 

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #CreativeWriting #BradfordLitFest
Do you want to shape how @womenzone_cc grows and e Do you want to shape how @womenzone_cc grows and evolves in the future and have the chance to win a £25 voucher?

Fill in this short survey by Sunday to make a big difference 👇 

http://womenzonecc.co.uk/1342-2/

Thank you and please share 💚

#TeamBradford #CommunitiesCan #HaveYourSay #Bradford #Womenzone
Have you taken up a new hobby in lockdown? Why not Have you taken up a new hobby in lockdown? Why not use it to fundraise for Mind in Bradford?

You can take part in the 2.6 Challenge in any way you’d like! By taking part, you will help us to raise vital funds to ensure no one in our communities has to face a mental health problem alone, while looking after your own wellbeing at the same time.

How about doing 26 minutes of yoga a day for 26 days?

For more ideas and how to register, visit the link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #TwoPointSixChallenge #Fundraise #Yoga #Wellbeing
Can you help @mindcharity to understand what good Can you help @mindcharity to understand what good peer support looks like by taking part in a short survey? 

The survey has been co-designed with local Minds and Lived Experience Advisors. It is for anyone who accesses peer support, particularly at a local Mind like Mind in Bradford. 

This survey will take around 5-10 minutes to complete. 

Mind will use insights from all survey responses to help them understand what good peer support looks like and to plan how they can support local Minds across England and Wales to provide it. 

Take the survey via the link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #MindCharity #PeerSupport
We would like to say a big thank you to @hallmarku We would like to say a big thank you to @hallmarkuki for doing the 2.6 Challenge to fundraise for us! 

Hallmark is challenging their team to take 26 walks over 26 days and to take photos that they feel capture the spirit of mental wellness and make them smile. 

They set a fundraising target of £260 and have exceeded that, with their current total sitting at £362! 

Here are some of the beautiful photos they've taken.

Thank you Hallmark 💜 

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #TwoPointSixChallenge
Our next catch-up with clients is TOMORROW! Join Our next catch-up with clients is TOMORROW!

Join us on Zoom at 6pm as CEO Helen holds an online session to update on what's happening here and to hear your feedback.

Sign up via the link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #Feedback #MentalHealthServices
At Mind in Bradford, we put together a wellbeing t At Mind in Bradford, we put together a wellbeing timetable for our staff and volunteers to help them reduce stress levels and stay motivated in these challenging times.

Our team are really feeling the benefit of these sessions.

Service Manager April said: "I attended the mindfulness session this morning and it was the best hour of my whole week so far!

"I am so grateful for a great organisation that invests in its staff in this way."

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #WorkplaceWellbeing #SelfCare
This LGBT+ History Month, we want to let you know This LGBT+ History Month, we want to let you know about about @bristolmind's Mindline Trans+ service.

Mindline Trans+ is a UK-wide service introduced after concerns were raised about the lack of trans specific mental health services.

It offers a confidential, non-judgemental listening space for people who identify as trans, non-binary or are questioning their gender.

📞 Call 0300 330 5468 between 8pm and midnight on Mondays and Fridays for support.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #BristolMind #MindlineTrans+ #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTMentalHealth #TransMentalHealth
Unfortunately, the advice on social distancing bet Unfortunately, the advice on social distancing between friends and family, including hugging, remains that people should continue to keep their distance from anyone not in their household or support bubble.

Send someone a virtual Hug instead to show that you're thinking of them via the link in our bio.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #SendAHug #VirtualHugs
Feel better at the end of lockdown by spending jus Feel better at the end of lockdown by spending just 20 minutes a day being physically active 🚲

What's your favourite local park for a cycle or walk?

@mylivingwell1

#MindinBradford #Mind #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #LivingWell #20MinMovement #ListerPark #Nature #GetActive #LockdownWalks
It's a really difficult time for many children and It's a really difficult time for many children and young people, and the future feels very uncertain.

There are many organisations and support services across the Bradford district who are here to help if you're struggling.

@youth_in_mind_ and @healthyminds.bdc have put together a video with information on our children and young people's service Know Your Mind, @sharing_voicesbfd, @brathaytrust and @mymup_digital and the kinds of support on offer.

Watch the video via the link in our bio.

Please share to help this reach more children and young people 💜

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #ChildrensMentalHealth #YouthMentalHealth
If you need support with your mental health, we ar If you need support with your mental health, we are here for you.

Anyone of any age in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven can call our confidential telephone helpline, Guide-Line, for mental health support and information.

📞 08001 884 884

All calls are free and lines are open every day from midday to midnight.

#Mind #MindinBradford #Bradford #WestYorkshire #MentalHealth #Charity #GuideLine #MentalHealthSupport #Airedale #Wharfedale #Craven #BradfordDistrict
"Every day is a new beginning. Take a deep breath, "Every day is a new beginning. Take a deep breath, smile, and start again"

#MondayMotivation #MentalHealth
Load More… Follow on Instagram

Supporters, Funders & Awards

Contact Us

Mind in Bradford

Kenburgh House    
28 Manor Row 
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD1 4QU

Guide-Line wellbeing support 08001 884 884. General enquiries 01274 730815 or email
[email protected]

Quick Links

  • Urgent Help
  • What’s On
  • News
  • Contact us

Get Social

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
Mind

© 2021 Mind in Bradford
Registered in England 7504966
Charity No. 1142357

Website Design © 2021 C27 Media Ltd

X
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok