Know Your Resources

When seeking support there are many avenues towards healing that can be beneficial.

Crisis Hotlines

This can be a way to talk to a trained advocate to talk through your situation right away.

  • Anti-Violence Project has a 24-hour hotline for LGBTQ+ survivors to call for confidential support: 212-714-1141
  • Love is Respect offers confidential support for teens, young adults, and their loved ones seeking help, resources, or information related to healthy relationships and dating abuse. They are available by text (“LOVEIS” to 22522), call (866.331.9474).
  • Trevor Project has trained counselors who understand the challenges LGBTQ+ young people face and are available for support 24/7. They will listen without judgment. You can call at 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.
  • Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a trans-led peer support service that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive. You can call at 877-565-8860


Domestic violence service providers and shelter

There is a misconception that domestic violence organizations are only for cisgender women, but it is actually the law that federally funded domestic violence organizations provide support services & shelter to everyone regardless of gender identity.

You can find your local domestic violence program by going to: www.domesticshelters.org


LGBTQ+ centers

Many communities have local LGBTQ+ centers that offer a range of services including support groups, case management, therapeutic support, financial assistance, medical care, and more.

You can find your local LGBTQ+ Center by going to: www.lgbtqcenters.org/LGBTCenter

Understanding and Healing from Trauma  

Trauma is our brain’s response to stressful or frightening events that can have short and long-term impacts on our sense of safety and ability to regulate our emotions.  

A trauma trigger is a neurobiological response to something conscious or subconscious that reminds us of a traumatic event. Some common reactions are: 

  • Shortness of breath or inability to breathe 
  • Heart racing 
  • Difficulty sleeping 
  • Migraines or muscle tensions 
  • Upset stomach 
  • Dissociation 

When seeking support there are many avenues that can be beneficial.  

  • Breathing exercises – Breath work is incredibly important in trauma healing and can be used to mitigate emotionally intense reactions to situations that trigger a trauma response. 
  • Therapy- Finding the right therapist that is trauma informed & trans-knowledgeable can be difficult. Exploring what your focus areas/priorities are can help.  
  • Body & energy work – Reiki, massage, acupuncture.  
  • Self help – Reading books on healing, journaling, art. 
  • Peer to peer – One on one discussions or support groups. 
  • Movement – Yoga, Pilates, self-defense, aerobics, etc.  
  • Medication- This must be prescribed by a doctor but can help reduce symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.