June is Pride Month, a time when the LGBTQIA+ community celebrates acceptance, equality and diversity. It’s a month to honor belonging, being proud of who you are and recognizing that you’re not alone. Whether you plan to celebrate by going to the parades and the events or are unsure about what to do, you should have a plan in place to take care of yourself.

If you’re going out you’ll want to be prepared. Wear comfortable shoes (or bring band-aids for blisters) and wear something that fits the occasion that you can move around in. For outdoor events you’ll need plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Pack a bag that’s easy to carry with water and snacks so that you can stay hydrated and nourished throughout your day. And listen to your body. If you start feeling overheated or tired out, take a break and rest. Finding a shady spot where you can cool off could be just the thing for you to recharge and be ready to rejoin the fun.

Make safety a priority. If you’re going with friends it’s a good idea to use the buddy system. Pair up with someone to make the rounds with and set up a group chat so you all can stay connected. You also might want to designate a meeting place and time in case a member of your group loses their phone. If you’re going alone, share your location with friends or family so they know where you are in case of emergency. Have an exit strategy for when you’re ready to go. Make a note of where you parked the car, pre-choose a location for rideshare pick-up, check for the closest mass transit stops. Let your contacts know when and how you’re leaving and where you’re going and then send them a quick text to let them know you arrived safely.

If you’re feeling pressured to feel proud when you’re struggling it can stir up a lot of uncomfortable emotions. A large part of Pride is about honoring your truth. So even when it feels like everyone is out enjoying themselves while you’re all sullen and sitting at home, taking care of your mental health and feeling your feelings is something to be proud of. It’s OK to feel sad or angry or have mixed emotions about Pride that fluctuate from day to day. To take some of the pressure off, spend time with friends or family who understand your situation. Set limits for your social media time and follow only the Pride accounts that convey a positive message for you. When you feel up to participating do so at your own pace and choose Pride events that speak to you.

If you’re in recovery, it’s also time to take pride in your sobriety. Before you attend an event check to see that it’s sober friendly and if it’s not it’s OK not to go. If it is, bring non-alcoholic beverages just in case and steer clear of non-alcoholic beer that may be available as a “sober option”. And if you’re offered a drink or substance, a polite and firm “No thank you” is all you need to say. When it’s time to go contact your sponsor, coach or therapist to let them know you’re leaving and where you’re going. This accountability will help keep the temptation to go somewhere that may put your recovery in jeopardy at bay.

If you feel the need for connection but aren’t quite ready for public events, you have options. Online LGBTQIA+ affirming spaces offer community and can foster a sense of belonging. The LGBT National Help Center is staffed by trained LGBTQIA+ volunteers who will listen with respect and provide free and confidential support. Trans Lifeline connects trans people through their hotline, a support service for trans and gender questioning peers. GaL-AA (Gays and Lesbians in Alcoholics Anonymous) and Gay & Sober are open to all in the LGBTQIA+ community and have information for online meetings including both 12 Step and secular fellowship. You can also try LGBTQIA+ positive apps like Voda or Kalda that focus on mental wellness in stigma-free spaces.

Celebrate Pride in your way, in a way that allows you to feel comfortable and safe. Prioritizing your physical and mental health, being mindful about your safety and reaching out for support when needed are all part of the landscape. What truly matters is that you live every month with pride, in yourself and your community.

 

If you, someone you love or someone in your network needs support during Pride, The Recovery Coach NY is a safe place to speak directly and confidentially with a member of our Recovery and Mental Health Coach teams. They listen actively, without judgment, and are here to help. For more information call Cindy at 631-921-4085 for a confidential conversation or email her directly here.

The Recovery Coach NY honors all paths of recovery with years of experience and a vast array of resources that can help those in need find the path to the life they deserve, filled with joy and purpose. We come with an empathetic ear and solution-oriented actions that can begin to bring the relief you and your loved one seek. We offer Recovery Coaching, Mental Health Support & Coaching, Sobriety & Mental Health Companionship, Executive Function & Accountability Coaching, Academic Coaching & Scholastic Support, Safe Transport, Case Management, Psychedelic Integration Coaching, Intervention and Emergency Services. For more information about our services, visit our website.

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