Northern Ireland’s Public Health Agency (PHA) is using the 35th anniversary of Belfast Pride to emphasise the importance of open conversations about sexual and mental health among the LGBTQIA+ community. The agency says stigma reduction and access to services have improved, but challenges remain.

Over the past five years, diagnoses of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Northern Ireland have increased, mirroring trends across the UK. Early data suggests the situation may be improving, but the PHA is urging continued vigilance. Frances Dowds, an agency health improvement manager, stated that discussing sexual health openly, including prevention, testing, and vaccination, supports both physical and mental well-being. She also encouraged partners to talk about boundaries and sexual history to reduce stigma.

The PHA highlighted the availability of free home STI testing kits through the SH24 service (www.sh24.org.uk) and noted that uptake of testing for HIV and other STIs has risen in recent years. Information on vaccines, including the mpox vaccine, is available on the agency’s website.

Shauna Houston, another health improvement manager at the PHA, said members of the LGBTQIA+ community are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem due to discrimination and social isolation. She urged anyone concerned about their mental health to seek help.

Support is available through Lifeline, Northern Ireland’s 24/7 crisis helpline on 0808 808 8000. Further mental health resources for the LGBTQIA+ community can be found at www.MindingYourHead.info. General sexual health information is provided at www.sexualhealthni.info.