IDAHOBIT – International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia: Standing Against Discrimination. Supporting Mental Wellbeing.
- Shane Warren
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
MEDIA RLEASE
For Immediate Release
17 May 2026
On IDAHOBIT – the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) reaffirms its commitment to dignity, safety, and equality for LGBTQIA+SB individuals.
Discrimination, harassment, and social exclusion have well-documented impacts on mental health. LGBTQIA+SB people continue to experience disproportionately higher rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide, not because of identity, but because of stigma, hostility, and structural inequity.
VMHPAA Chair Shane Warren said:
“Mental health outcomes improve when people feel safe to be who they are. IDAHOBIT reminds us that equality is not an abstract ideal it directly affects wellbeing. Standing against discrimination is standing for mental health.” Shane Warren said.
Homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia are not simply matters of opinion; they create real psychological harm. Words, policies, and behaviours that marginalise individuals contribute to fear, isolation, and reduced help-seeking.
Conversely, inclusive schools, workplaces, families, and community spaces are protective. Affirmation reduces distress. Visibility strengthens belonging. Acceptance builds resilience.
VMHPAA calls for:
Continued efforts to reduce discrimination in all settings
Inclusive, culturally competent mental health services
Education that promotes respect and understanding
Support for LGBTQIA+ young people navigating identity
Public leadership that upholds dignity and safety
IDAHOBIT is both a day of awareness and a reminder that action matters not only today, but every day.
Mental health matters for everyone. And equality is foundational to wellbeing.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
Philip Armstrong, CEO
Suggested Hashtags
#IDAHOBIT#StandAgainstHate#EqualityMatters#MentalWellbeing#LGBTQIA#InclusiveCommunities#PrideAndRespect#VMHPAA
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