ACR opens support center for gay, lesbian teens

[Blue Senpai]

ACR opens support center for gay, lesbian teens
By AMY NEFF ROTH
Posted: Sep 30th, 2014

Being a teenager is tough. Being a gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or questioning teen can prove even harder.

They're at greater risk for mental health and substance abuse issues, said Mamie Smith, Mohawk Valley regional supervisor for ACR Health. And they're three to four times more likely to commit suicide.

That's why ACR Health has opened Q2, a meeting place for LGBTQ youth from ages 12 to 22 in its Utica office. Teens from the Mohawk Valley had been driving to ACR's center in Syracuse.

Too often these teens are left on their own, hearing negative messages about their sexuality, Smith said. "We may be that lifeline that they need until they're ready to stand on their own feet," she said.

More: http://www.uticaod.com/article/20140930/NEWS/140939923

[King Malachite]

I wish we had something like that down here.   

[gennee]

That's great to hear and see that someone is helping the youth out.