Pride Month is about celebrating the strength, power and joy of the LGBTQIA+ community—and recognizing the ongoing journey toward equality.
While social acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community is growing in the U.S., people still may face discrimination and mistreatment in their daily lives. Unsurprisingly, attacks against the community can contribute to the mental health challenges disproportionately faced by individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+—and in particular, young people.
To address this public health crisis, it is crucial to condemn anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination, promote acceptance and belonging and improve access to affirming support. At Johnson & Johnson, diversity, equity and inclusion are core values of the company. The company has created a culture where differences are celebrated and necessary to take bold actions to create a healthier, more equitable world. Consistent with the company’s sustained commitment to DEI, Johnson & Johnson opposes actions that promote discrimination or mistreatment of LGBTQIA+ individuals and will continue to support this community through employee policies, business practices and advocacy.
One initiative created by Janssen Neuroscience that highlights these efforts is Depression Looks Like Me. The campaign is aimed at normalizing the conversation about depression in the LGBTQIA+ community and empowering people to seek the mental healthcare they may need. It offers a safe space where individuals can share personal stories, gain access to culturally appropriate resources and tools and learn about the different facets of depression so they can make informed decisions with their healthcare teams about their treatment plans.
Read about some of the most urgent mental health disparities faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and how Johnson & Johnson is working to raise awareness and provide support and learn other key dates and stats.