This Pride year, our focus is on spotlighting health and well-being to ensure everyone can be Proud and Prepared throughout the summer. To achieve this goal, we’re launching the ‘Proud and Prepared’ initiative, a collaborative effort between LGBT community organisations like Gay Health Network & Man2Man.ie, BelongTo, LINC, Gay Men’s Health Service (GMHS), and Dublin Pride.
Our mission is to raise awareness about available health and wellbeing services catering to various needs such as sexual health, mental health, physical health, and substance use support. Through our collective experience, we emphasise the important connection between a healthy body and mind, positively influencing every aspect of our lives.
Sexual Health
Sexual health is not just about avoiding or treating illness, it’s about feeling good in all aspects of your sexuality. By placing importance on our sexual health and practising safe habits, we’re not just steering clear of STIs; we’re also enriching our relationships, boosting our self-esteem, and living our best lives.
HIV and sexual health information for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM), and trans people.
Information, peer support and resources on HIV, STIs and sexual health for gbMSM.
Ireland’s public sexual health service for gay, bi, MSM and trans people.
Provides sexual health information for lesbians and bisexual women.
Campaign promoting education and open conversation about sexual consent.
LGBTQ+ youth organisation which caters for young people aged between 14-23.
Provide confidential and non-judgemental listening and support helplines for LGBTQ+ community 7 days per week.
Confidential support helpline, operated by a group of enthusiastic female-identified (LGBTQAI+) volunteers on Thursday nights from 6.30pm until 9pm.
HSE national resource for information and services related to sexual health and wellbeing.
Mental health
As the WHO aptly states, “There is no health without mental health.” We emphasise taking care of our minds just as much as our bodies. Good mental health is achievable for everyone. By building resilience and knowing when to seek help, we can keep our minds healthy.
LGBTQ+ youth organisation which caters for young people aged between 14-23.
Provides support, training, and advocacy which aims to improve the lives of LGBT+ people across Ireland.
TENI works to improve the lives of transgender people and their families in Ireland.
A national depression charity in Ireland providing support, education, and information.
Ireland’s network for HIV prevention and sexual health for gay, bi and MSM.
Getting Active
Staying physically active is one of the best ways to maintain good mental health. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or simply taking a walk, regular physical activity significantly enhances energy levels, mood, and sleep quality.
A running club for LGBTQ+ people and allies in Dublin that promotes fitness and community.
Promotes inclusion and LGBTQ+ participation in sports.
Drugs and alcohol
While drugs and alcohol may feature in some celebrations, understanding their effects is paramount to maintaining our health and well-being.
Some tips:
- Use the buddy system to stay safe and ensure everyone gets home.
- Be mindful of your environment and plan to use substances in a safe place.
- Know your limits and pace yourself to avoid problems.
- Drink responsibly, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Don’t mix substances to help avoid dangerous outcomes.
- Stay hydrated and eat well to keep your body in good shape.
- Learn the signs of overdose and how to respond, and seek help if needed.
HIV and sexual health information for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM), and trans people.
Resource for information, support and harm reduction for drugs and alcohol.
LGBTQ+ youth organisation which caters for young people aged between 14-23.
Chemsex Harm Reduction
Chemsex is a reality, it can be great fun and a good time. But we need to tread carefully at this intersection of sex and drugs. By educating and empowering ourselves, looking out for each other, and making smart choices, we can enjoy our experiences while minimising potential harm. Start low, go slow, mind yourself, and look out for others is a good starting point.
HIV and sexual health information for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM), and trans people.
Information, peer support and resources on HIV, STIs and sexual health for gbMSM.
Podcast for people living with HIV, their friends, family and allies.
Resource for information, support and harm reduction for drugs and alcohol.
Around Ireland
Provides confidential sexual health services like testing, contraception, and advice in Cork.
Supports the mental, sexual, and physical health of gay, bisexual, and queer men in Cork.
Limerick-based charity providing support and services for LGBTQ+, sexual health, and HIV issues in the Mid-West of Ireland.
Offers sexual health support and services in western Ireland, with a focus on the LGBTQI+ community.
Northern Ireland’s leading LGBTQIA+ health organisation promoting physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.