The experience of being an LGBT person in the military is unique. While many people may think that it's all about combat and training, there are also numerous challenges that come with being openly gay or lesbian while serving your country. This can make building healthy relationships difficult. But what if you had access to social and institutional resources that could help stabilize your life and boost resiliency?
Luckily, there are several ways that these resources can be used effectively for this purpose. In this blog post, I will explore how service members can take advantage of them to build more secure and fulfilling relationships.
Social Resources
One of the most important things that LGBT service members need is social support. It can be hard to find friends and family who understand the struggles they face, but there are organizations like OutServe-SLDN that provide community for those in uniform. By connecting with others going through similar experiences, individuals feel less alone and have someone to turn to when needed. Other groups like Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) offer counseling services specifically designed for LGBT members who have lost loved ones in service.
Another resource is online communities like Military Partners & Families Coalition (MPFC). These networks allow spouses, partners, parents, siblings, and children of active duty members to connect and share their stories with one another. They also provide information on benefits and legal issues related to service life.
Many companies have created safe spaces where LGBT employees can talk about workplace concerns without fear of repercussions.
Google has a program called "Gayglers" which hosts monthly meetups across the globe for employees who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.
Institutional Resources
In addition to social resources, institutional policies and programs play an essential role in creating a more inclusive environment for all military personnel - including LGBT individuals. One example is the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell (DADT), which allowed people to serve openly regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity since 2011. This policy change allows service members to focus on their jobs rather than hiding who they are from colleagues and commanders.
Other ways institutions can support relational stability include promoting diversity training within units so everyone understands different perspectives. The Department of Defense has implemented mandatory instruction that teaches soldiers how to respect each other regardless of background or beliefs. It also provides training on how to handle discrimination complaints when they arise within the ranks.
There should be accessible mental health services available for those struggling with depression or anxiety caused by stressors associated with being out in uniform while still fulfilling your duties! The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers free crisis hotlines staffed 24/7 by trained professionals who specialize in PTSD and substance abuse recovery. They also provide therapy referrals based on individual needs - something especially important if you live far away from home base where care might be limited.
Social and institutional resources both have powerful potential when it comes to enhancing relational stability among LGBT service members. By taking advantage of these options, one can create stronger connections with peers while still serving our country proudly!
Which social and institutional resources most effectively enhance relational stability and resilience for LGBT service members?
There is a growing body of research that suggests that increased support from family, friends, colleagues, and the wider community can help LGBT service members cope with the challenges they face while serving in the military. A study conducted by the National Center for Transgender Equality found that social support systems such as these are crucial to maintaining mental health and reducing stress levels.