Resilient, hopeful, and empowered LGBTQ young people are those who possess positive self-esteem, social support, healthy coping mechanisms, and an internal locus of control. They do not let external factors dictate their thoughts, feelings, attitudes, behaviors, or choices but instead choose to take charge of them. To be resilient, they must believe in themselves and have confidence that they can overcome adversities and setbacks. When faced with challenges, such individuals remain optimistic, maintaining hope for better things to come even if it requires effort and time. Having a sense of control over one's life is also critical because it allows them to make informed decisions and act proactively rather than reactively. They have strategies that enable them to handle difficult situations effectively, reduce stress levels, and bounce back from distress. This includes emotional regulation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, positive self-talk, and problem-solving skills. It also involves cognitive tools like planning ahead, setting realistic goals, seeking information, using effective communication, taking action, staying organized, practicing gratitude, and visualizing success. These youth demonstrate agency by asserting their identity and expressing their true selves without fear or shame despite societal disapproval or discrimination.
Being surrounded by supportive friends, family members, mentors, teachers, peers, organizations, and communities increases their chances of achieving these qualities. In addition to providing encouragement, guidance, resources, and opportunities, the people around them inspire resilience, hope, and empowerment through their unconditional love, acceptance, affirmation, validation, empathy, respect, kindness, inclusiveness, solidarity, authenticity, collaboration, accountability, responsibility, integrity, honesty, transparency, fairness, equity, and justice. By embracing diversity, celebrating differences, advocating for equality, challenging prejudice, fighting stigma, reducing discrimination, promoting inclusion, fostering belonging, amplifying voices, empowering activism, advocating for rights, creating safe spaces, and offering support services, they help LGBTQ youth develop resiliency and resilience.