At the beginning of a fresh new year we are excited to launch our new focus on LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness. Over the past couple of years of rebuilding, our Logan Pride Board and some awesome volunteers, sponsors and allies have developed a series of health focused social events for our wonderfully diverse community. To further our Mission of: “building a healthy and thriving LGBTQIA+ community by providing a safe space, education, resources, and outreach” we enthusiastically announce our next steps toward “healthy and thriving”!
To begin the new year we kicked off our wellness education series on January 14, in cooperation with Bear River Health Department. These events will take place in the Logan Pride House between January 14-March 4. The wellness education events will be available to all and will take place during our weekly Coffee & Cocoa event. Our first topics and dates are:
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The Logan Pride Foundation will soon be offering no-cost HIV testing kits to our community. Once available, these will be able to be obtained from the Logan Pride House by anyone in need. Community members can safely and privately test in their own homes. It's crucial for LGBTQ+ individuals to be proactive in protecting themselves and their partners from HIV, and to seek out appropriate medical care if they are HIV-positive. Some ways to reduce the risk of HIV transmission include using condoms consistently, taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and getting tested regularly. If you have HIV, it's important to start as soon as possible working with an LGBTQ+ supportive healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works for you.
Physical and sexual health are certainly important aspects of our health and wellness. It's important to practice safe sex, get tested regularly, and build a trusting relationship with your healthcare provider. Later this year Logan Pride will host educational events to promote awareness of and protection from the many other sexually transmitted infections. Some (not just HIV) have no cure and must be dealt with for life. Knowing what to look for, where to get tested, prevention techniques and what treatments are available can help us all make better and safer risk reduction decisions. Talk openly and honestly with your partners about sexual health, and to respect each other's boundaries and decisions. We are planning training on these communication skills as well.
Mental health is another important aspect of our overall LGBTQ+ wellness. We all know that in Utah and Cache Valley many of us face unique stressors and challenges that can take a toll on our individual mental health. It's important to seek out support from friends, family, and professionals if you are struggling with your mental health. We are also actively seeking and developing professional relationships and programming to support mental health.
Logan Pride is currently recruiting several local healthcare professionals and promoting LGBTQ+ specific training for others. Please let us know if you are aware of area doctors that are safe, affirming, and want to get involved.
We hope that this information is helpful. Join us in supporting Logan Pride’s Mission in connecting, educating, and supporting our diverse community - and each other.