Pride Month 2025: Experts Decode on How to Support LGBTQIA+ Friends
It’s Pride Month 2025, and there are ample ways to support LGBTQIA+ friends. But if you are caught in the pickle of how to support them, then you are at the right place. Before we start, you must understand that supporting LGBTQIA+ friends is a vital aspect because every person deserves respect, understanding, and acceptance.
Probably, you are unaware, but navigating life for an LGBTQIA+ individual can be challenging. However, as a friend, your support can make an immense difference in their journey. Hence, we reached out to experts and compiled this guide on how to support your LGBTQIA+ friends with thoughtfulness and care.
Pride Month 2025: Comprehensive Guide on How to Support LGBTQIA+ Friends
It’s Pride Month 2025, and here are some tips to help you become a supportive ally to your LGBTQIA+ friends.
What are some common mistakes people make when trying to support their LGBTQIA+ friends?
All the experts emphasized the importance of showing an empathetic ear. They also noted that research consistently shows that LGBTQIA+ individuals experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation compared to the general population.
Ashley Peña, National Executive Director of Mission Connection at AMFM Healthcare, Mission Connection Healthcare, says, “One mistake I often see is performative allyship, like posting supportive messages but not engaging in real conversations or advocacy. Another is over-focusing on someone’s identity rather than seeing them holistically. Avoid intrusive questions like Are you top or bottom? Unless they invite that dialogue.”
Ash Bhatt, Chief Medical Officer of Legacy Healing Centre, also shared, “The most common mistake people make when trying to support LGBTQIA+ friends is offering surface-level affirmation without addressing the deeper emotional weight that comes with identity, stigma, or trauma. Kind words help, but consistent, emotionally safe spaces matter more.”
Louis Laves-Webb, LCSW-S, LPC-S, Psychotherapist/CEO, Louis Laves-Webb, LCSW-S, LPC-S & Associates, notes that the LGBTQIA+ community can perceive political intolerance agendas as an existential threat.
“Oppressive policies often lead to feelings of uncertainty and fear, particularly for those concerned about access to healthcare, marriage equality, or anti-discrimination protections. These types of policies can also influence public attitudes, potentially increasing hostility toward LGBTQIA+ individuals in certain communities,” he adds.
What does meaningful allyship look like in friendships?
When it comes to how to support LGBTQIA+ friends, please don’t do it for namesake but get actively involved. Be a supportive shoulder when they need the most.
According to Allyssa Powers, Therapist and educator, genuine allyship in friendship starts with listening without trying to fix or minimize friends’ experiences. It means educating yourself independently rather than expecting a friend to be your teacher on LGBTQ+ issues.
She further adds, “Meaningful allies show up consistently – not just during Pride month or crisis moments, but in everyday conversations and decisions. Practical allyship includes using correct names and pronouns consistently (even when that person isn’t around), speaking up against discriminatory comments in your other social circles, and being willing to examine and change your own biases. It also means recognizing when to step back and amplify LGBTQIA+ voices rather than speaking for them.”
Louis Laves-Webb says that to be a meaningful ally; one must work hard to develop greater empathy and understanding for some of the experiences that the LGBTQIA+ community may experience.
“LGBTQIA+ affirmation is a way of expressing the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community that acknowledges the dignity and self-worth and celebrates the unique experiences of LGBTQIA+ community members. However, it goes beyond mere tolerance and acceptance, but more significantly emphasizing validation and empowerment in addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people.”
Further, Ashley Peña adds, “To me, true allyship means listening more than speaking, educating yourself on LGBTQIA+ issues, and standing up against discrimination, even when your friend isn’t present. It’s also respecting their journey; not everyone wants to “come out” loudly, and that’s okay.”
How can people provide emotional support during times of rejection, coming out, or discrimination?
Often, we have preconceived notions about certain genders and their characteristics. And they are imposed upon us by social traditions, our surroundings, and our families. But for the LGBTQIA+ community, coming out, starting hormone therapy, or celebrating their identity are significant milestones. And as a friend and ally, you should celebrate with them.
Allyssa Powers says, “During rejection, coming out, or discrimination experiences, the most powerful thing you can offer is validation. Phrases like “I believe you,” “That sounds really difficult,” and “You didn’t deserve that treatment” can be incredibly healing. Avoid rushing to silver linings or trying to rationalize the discriminatory behavior they’ve experienced.
Follow their lead on what kind of support they need. Sometimes, they need practical help (such as accompanying them during a difficult conversation); sometimes, they require space to process, and sometimes, they just need someone to witness their pain without trying to solve it. Ask directly: “What would be most helpful right now?” or “How can I best support you through this?”
Furthermore, Ash Bhatt points out that as a friend, one must not over-personalize their experience. He says, “Avoid turning your support into a “teachable moment” for yourself. They don’t owe you vulnerability.”
Are there any mental health tips or considerations for allies to keep in mind?
Ashley Peña notes, “One thing I always advise as a tip is to respect boundaries, don’t out them or push them to share before they’re ready.”
Furthermore, Ash Bhatt adds, “Encourage mental health care without pathologizing identity: LGBTQIA+ individuals aren’t broken – the system often is. Help them find clinicians trained in affirmative therapy, especially those experienced with trauma-informed or dual-diagnosis care.” He adds, “Being an ally isn’t a role. It’s a relationship built on empathy, trust, and emotional responsibility.”
Most importantly, Allyssa Powers points out that as an ally, one must also tend to their own mental health. “Supporting someone through discrimination and rejection can be emotionally taxing. Seek your support when needed but be mindful not to burden your LGBTQIA+ friends with your feelings about their struggles.”
She further adds, “Process your reactions with other allies, therapists, or support groups. Finally, remember that allyship is an ongoing practice, not a destination. You’ll make mistakes, and that’s okay! What matters is your willingness to learn, apologize when necessary, and keep showing up with love and respect.”
Some extra tips for truly being a good friend
- Don’t forget to educate yourself about LGBTQIA+ topics. Don’t expect them to teach you. Instead, you undertake your research independently.
- Accept them for who they are. Don’t just assume but take them seriously. Show acceptance by inviting them to social activities, discussing their life, and speaking positively about them.
- Respect their identity and pronouns. Instead, using the correct pronouns and addressing them by their chosen name affirms their identity and shows that you honor their self-expression.
- Be a good listener without judgment. They might turn to you, sharing their personal stories or struggles. During these moments, your role is to create a safe space and listen actively and empathetically without judgment or interruption.
- Show your support by advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and standing against bigotry or discrimination. Speak up when you witness intolerance or prejudice, whether in casual conversations, online platforms, or public settings.
- If you are supporting an LGBTQIA+ friend, then do it wholeheartedly – with genuine care and respect, not for the sake of appearances or to gain social recognition.
- You might feel curious about your friend’s experiences, but you must respect their boundaries. Avoid asking invasive or overly personal questions, as not everyone is comfortable discussing their journey in detail. Give them space; they will share things with you at their own pace when they are comfortable.
- No matter what, stand by them during tough times. They might undergo challenges such as rejection, discrimination, or mental health struggles. Be there for your friends when they need support the most.
- Reflect on your assumptions, past behaviors, or ingrained stereotypes, and make an effort to challenge them. Growth and learning are ongoing processes that demonstrate your commitment to fostering understanding and knowledge.
- You must be patient and compassionate toward them. Every individual’s journey is unique, and your friend may face ups and downs as they navigate their path. Be patient during moments of uncertainty or difficulty. Compassion and encouragement remind them that they’re not alone and that your friendship remains steadfast.
Over to you…
Supporting LGBTQIA+ friends is more than an act of kindness – it’s a commitment to creating a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and loved. As a friend, you must understand that the journey toward acceptance and equality begins with understanding. Besides, by standing by your LGBTQIA+ friends, you can make a meaningful difference in their lives and the broader community.
