Welcome to LGB Mind-Matters.Com, which looks at mental health issues affecting lesbians, gay men bisexuals and trans people(LGBTs). This site was constructed by Maurice Greenham, a gay man living with HIV/AIDS who has had experiences of mental ill health. It was launched in November 2001 as a project of community benefit resulting from a MIND, Millennium, Real Lives Real People award. In July 2005 the Rainbow Forum, Stoke on Trent, made a contribution towards the cost of maintaing the site; a generous act, which is hereby gratefully acknowledged.

Everyone at some time in their life will experience some form of mental distress whether it be the result of the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, the break up of a relationship or the effect of physical illness. However, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transexual people (LGBT) are disproportionately affected. For example, the suicide rate for homosexuals is six times higher than for heterosexuals and LGB youth are twice as likely to attempt suicide as non LGB youth.

Gay youngsters may encounter homophobic bullying at school; those who chose to 'come out' may face rejection and hositlity from families and friends. Homophobic attitudes in the work place may make life hell or impede prospects of promotion for LGBT people, whilst older gays may experience isolation from bereavement. This site looks at some of the issues likely to affect the mental well being of the LGBT community; at the same time it offers suggestions of where help and support can be found.

Section 28 was repealed in 2003 and in 2004 new antidiscrimination legislation was put in place that should improve conditions in the workplace and at large for the gay community. New civil rights for registered same sex couples came into effect in December 2005 which address many basic issues of equality like inheritance and visiting rights. Of course, changes in the law do not in themselves create a better environment for LGBT people; but hopefully, these welcome steps will make a difference. The Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2007 came into force on 30th April 2007 making it an offence to discriminate against LGBT people in the provision of goods and services - another significant milestone in LGBT history.

	Pictures The original pictures on the site were captured on a JVC digital video and still camera provided by the project. The images are intended not only to liven up the pages, but it is hoped they will also create associations that are calming, positive and life affirming. More recent photos taken on Canon Powershot A400 (3.2 mega pixels)
Copies of the report: Mental health and social wellbeing of gay men, lesbians and bisexuals in England and Wales (ISBN 1-903567-46-7)	Available from MIND, 15-19 Broadway, Stratford, London E15 4BQ Tel: 020 8519 2122