LGBTQIA+ Pride Month

By Christine Larsen, MS, LBS, Behavioral Health Manager

June is LGBTQIA+ pride month.  Individuals with IDD are just as likely to identify as LGBTQIA+ as anyone else. In fact, Autistic people are more likely to be transgender than the general population! Sexuality in IDD is a confusing and uncomfortable topic for some. Professionals, family members, and caregivers may have concerns about an individual’s cognitive capacity to understand the consequences of sexual activity, or their ability to communicate boundaries and consent. There are often biased perceptions that people with IDD don’t think about or desire sex or romantic partnerships, but that isn’t necessarily true. It’s important that professionals, family members, and caregivers foster an inclusive and affirming environment, and provide individuals with access to sex education and ample opportunities to engage with peers. Both the IDD and LGBTQIA+ demographics experience higher rates of mental health disorders, but this risk can be mitigated through acceptance and access to supports.

LGBTQIA+ resources and Pride Month links:

https://phillygaycalendar.com/pride/

‍ https://www.waygay.org/

‍IDD Sexuality supports and training links:

https://disabilities.temple.edu/programs-services/health-equity/healthy-sexuality/sex-disability-101-webinar

https://cloud.absorbcreate.com/launch/project/q3LZtPLm36KbuwkqB

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