For me, experiences like sexual assault created the perfect storm. I didn’t just feel my pain, I carried it like an invisible weight that seemed to grow heavier every year. It was like my body was screaming for attention in ways I couldn’t control.
Stress doesn’t affect everyone equally. “In LGBTQ+ research, we talk about how stress literally gets under the skin,” says Dr. Alison Cerezo, PhD, leading researcher and psychologist specializing in LGBTQ+ Health, Trauma, and Social Justice. “Compounded stress over long periods reduces our ability to ward off disease. That’s why you see higher rates of illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease in communities facing consistent stress, often because they’re targeted communities.”
For women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others in marginalized groups, the stress is compounded by systemic discrimination — both inside and outside of healthcare. Many people avoid seeking care entirely because they know the discrimination they face in daily life will likely show up in medical settings, too. “Trust in healthcare comes from people’s real-life experiences,” says Dr. Cerezo. “For providers, it’s crucial to genuinely listen and understand why that mistrust exists.”
Each person I spoke to echoed the importance of community. “Trauma dysregulates us; connection helps us re-regulate,” says Jackson Nakazawa. Whether through friends, family, mentors, or chosen communities, the most grounding thing we can do is to connect in real life.” We’re a hyper-connected generation, but when it comes to well-being and healing, the grounding effect real-life connection brings activates what Jackson Nakazawa calls ‘mirror neurons,’ calming the brain through safe, in-person connection. That said, the internet is often a lifeline, especially for LGBTQ+ youth. “For many,” says Dr. Cerezo, “the internet is where they find their community and learn about safe practices.” The key? “Balance scrolling with showing up for yourself and your people.”
Healing isn’t just about prescriptions or quick fixes; it’s about practices that nourish the mind and body. Dr. Esther Sternberg, MD, renowned author and expert in the science of stress, healing, and integrative health, emphasizes: “One of the most powerful things we can do is to tell our stories, honestly and openly. That’s how we connect, how we break down shame, and how we help each other heal—and in doing so, we help ourselves.”
