Why Pride Matters: More Than Just a Parade

Matthew Kelley
Jun 27
3 min read

Updated: Jul 10

Pride flag in a blog written by a gay therapist in Hamilton, ON about why Pride matters for mental health and psychotherapy

Pride Month is loud, colorful, and unapologetic. However, underneath the celebration lies something deeper. It embodies the right to exist, to belong, and to feel safe in your own skin.

As a gay therapist, I often hear clients, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, grapple with complex emotions. They ask questions like, Why do I still feel ashamed? Why is it so hard to take up space? These are critical queries about identity and healing. They highlight why Pride continues to hold immense significance in our lives.

Pride Counters Shame

For many queer individuals, shame isn’t inherent; it’s learned. It develops from being told—either directly or indirectly—that there’s something wrong with who we are. This message can come from family rejection, bullying, or the absence of representation in society. Pride is fundamentally about reclaiming the spaces that shame tries to shrink. It’s an empowering declaration: I’m not broken. I have the right to be here. Whether you partake in parades or simply wear a rainbow pin, that affirmation is yours.

Visibility Affirms Identity

Visibility is life-giving. When we see other LGBTQ+ people online, in media, or at events, it reinforces that we are not alone. This visibility helps combat the isolation many of us felt in our formative years.

Pride Month enhances LGBTQ+ visibility in ways that validate our identities. That validation is not just comforting; it also offers protection. Studies indicate that LGBTQ+ individuals who feel connected to their communities experience lower rates of depression and anxiety.

If you have ever felt compelled to hide who you are, Pride serves as a gentle reminder that you no longer have to do so.

Pride Challenges Internalized Messages

Even after coming out, internalized homophobia and shame can persist. Pride acts as a catalyst to challenge those insidious messages we often tell ourselves, such as:

I need to tone it down.
I’ll never be entirely safe to be myself.
I’m too much.

Participating in Pride provides the opportunity to rewrite those scripts. This might manifest as wearing something vibrant, holding your partner’s hand publicly, or setting firm boundaries with individuals who fail to affirm your identity. Healing goes beyond accepting your identity; it’s about living it unapologetically.

Pride Isn’t Only for the Out and Loud

You don’t have to be completely out to honor Pride. Whether you are questioning your identity or do not feel safe being visible, you still belong. Pride is inclusive, embracing all facets of the LGBTQ+ experience. There is no single “correct” way to be queer.

There are quiet yet meaningful ways to honor Pride:

Reading works by queer authors
Journaling about your identity journey
Watching LGBTQ+ films
Seeking conversations with affirming therapists

Pride Is About LGBTQ+ Mental Health

Navigating trauma, anxiety, and shame is often part of the LGBTQ+ experience. Pride transcends mere celebration; it serves as a vital mental health check-in. It's a reminder that queer joy is essential for healing. We deserve more than just survival; we deserve peace, visibility, and joy. Pride reinforces this truth.

For Allies: Your Support Matters

If you identify as an ally, Pride presents a valuable opportunity to show your support. This involves:

Listening more than you speak
Educating yourself about LGBTQ+ issues
Supporting queer-owned businesses
Actively calling out homophobia and transphobia

Every small action contributes to a larger impact. Your support can help cultivate safer, more affirming environments throughout the year.

You’re Not Alone

Regardless of whether you’re out, questioning, healing, or anywhere in between, you deserve support. Engaging in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy can enable you to: