Radiant Health Centers’ media coverage through the years, from events to client updates, learn more about us here.

Why Regular STD/STI Testing Matters for Your Health

Regular STD testing matters for overall health.

Over the last decade, awareness campaigns have led to more and more people in Orange County and across the country getting regular sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, also known as sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. Access to inclusive, LGBTQ+-friendly medical clinics with confidential, judgment-free care drove this increase. And while this is good news to be celebrated, there is still much work to be done, especially in reaching younger people. This is a population that specifically needs to understand why regular STD testing matters for their health.

Why Is Regular STD Testing Important for Your Health?

Taking care of your health is always important, and access to treatment centers that offer education and support in addition to stigma-free care leads to better health outcomes. When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases, young adults aged 15–24 account for almost half of new infections. This makes education about sexual health, including the importance of regular STD testing, a priority. Below are a few reasons why testing continues to matter for personal and public health.

Not All STDs Have Visible Symptoms

You may wonder when to see a healthcare provider for STD/STI symptoms, but understand that not all infections have symptoms. When you are unaware of their presence, these asymptomatic illnesses can affect you in the long term. Infections can cause damage to organs, affect fertility, and even cognition. No matter how you feel physically, regular STD testing ensures you know what’s happening, and can begin treatment ASAP when it’s needed.

Testing Reduces Transmission Risks

Sex should be consensual, enjoyable and healthy for the parties involved. Regular STD testing ensures that you know what’s going on in your body. If you are diagnosed with an STD, and since there are multiple types of infections, there are specific interventions to keep you healthy. Regular testing also means you can enjoy sex with peace of mind, not having to worry that you may pass an infection to your partner(s).

Early Detection Leads to Better Health

STDs occur and spread most often through asymptomatic individuals in unprotected sex acts or due to prophylactic failure. And unfortunately, because of stigma, there’s an abundance of misinformation about how they are contracted and who spreads them. STDs can affect anyone who is sexually active, no matter their age or whether they are in a committed relationship or not. Regular STD testing ensures early detection, and the sooner you know, the better for your health. There’s no need to feel shame when incredible treatment options are readily available.

Availability of Treatment

Access to treatment is important to the health of individuals and communities. Over the past 20 years, significant breakthroughs have occurred in HIV treatment and other STD testing and treatment that have led to better outcomes for many people. This includes the ability to have at-home testing. But still, not everyone knows about these advancements. Campaigns like “GYT: Get Yourself Tested” (aimed at adolescents and young adults) let people know that regular STD testing is part of a satisfying and healthy sex life.

Get Confidential, Affordable STD Testing in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides STD testing to residents of Irvine, Santa Ana and greater Orange County. Our affordable medical clinic, behavioral health services and social services are available to everyone looking to live a healthy life. Upon request, we can schedule testing booths at community events and at local businesses. Call us today at (949) 809-5700, or request an appointment for confidential care.

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Support Youth Mental Health During Bullying Prevention Month

Supporting youth mental health in Bullying Prevention Month.

Did you know that bullying affects an estimated 19.2% American children and teens? And the bullying is highly concentrated among girls and LGBTQ+ youth, making LGBTQ+-friendly counseling extremely important for the overall health and development of local youth. Each year, October is set aside as Bullying Prevention Month to bring attention to this issue and highlight the best ways to support young people and their mental health.

Ways to Support Youth Mental Health in the Face of Bullying

It’s probably no surprise that LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to face bullying than their counterparts. When school doesn’t feel safe and there is concern that family or friends may not accept them, it can take a severe toll on the mental health of young people. But there are affirming and beneficial behavioral health services to help teens and young adults find hope in a world where they have been bullied or felt cast aside. The following are key ways to support youth mental health this month and beyond.

Judgement-Free Communication

Parents, caretakers and trusted figures have the ability to greatly help young people. When a young person is bullied, especially for who they are, it can be difficult for them to talk about. Having regular, open communication with the young people in your life can help them open up about their concerns, from school work to talking about sex. It’s about active listening, being accepting, and offering understanding much more than it is about having the “right answers.” When young people are comfortable, they’re more likely to speak openly about their concerns, which leads to improvements in many areas, including mental health outcomes.

Teach Them Coping Skills Offline

Social media and the 24-hour news and entertainment cycle have compounded the typical developmental stress of the teen years. Since 2020, the rates of anxiety and depression among teens have increased, and sometimes it seems like there’s no way to change the situation.

However, there are many small, everyday things that can be done to help. Teaching teens to limit both their texting and time spent online is a big one! Encouraging them to explore their interests in the real world and working with them on their hobbies can show acceptance and build bonds. Going for walks, swimming, reading, and meditation are all excellent ways to provide balance and improve mental health.

Utilize Available Resources

Parents, caretakers, educators and anyone involved in the lives of children, teens and young adults can find helpful resources on trusted outlets. From StopBullying.gov to campaigns from StompOutBullying.org, you can find out how to talk to young people about self-kindness, acceptance, empathy, and the beauty of differences. These sites also share specific ways to prevent bullying, and show how kids can stand up for themselves and others.

In addition, such resources provide information on how to find mental health services for those affected by bullying, along with other issues in life. Plus, there are organizations committed to being safe spaces specifically for LGBTQ+ youth. Radiant Health Centers has an LGBTQ+ Youth Mentorship Program to provide access to holistic medical and mental health care. Access to programs like this provide support and can also save young people’s lives.

Get Compassionate Youth Mental Care in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers is part of the Orange County community. We provide medical care, behavioral care, and social services in a kind, inclusive, judgement-free atmosphere. Our programs cater to youth and adults from every community. Request your appointment or call us at (949) 809-5700 to get help.

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How AIDS Walks Make a Difference in the Fight Against AIDS

Orange County AIDS Walk.

On October 18, 2025, the Orange County community will gather for the final AIDS Walk 2025 at Orange Coast College. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the event unites individuals, families, and teams in a vital show of solidarity. For those attending, it is an important opportunity to honor those lost to AIDS, support people living with HIV today, and raise funds for prevention and care services. If you haven’t yet registered, please do so today for this historic event.

Orange County United at AIDS Walk 2025

Since 1985, AIDS Walk has brought people together in a spirit of community, compassion, courage, and progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS. What began as a response to the AIDS crisis has grown into a community-driven tradition that raises vital funds for healthcare, prevention, housing, and support services.

Gia Gunn television personality advocate.

This year’s 40th anniversary will feature a sunset walk, live entertainment, a resource fair, food trucks, and even a cutest dog contest. Adding to the celebration, Gia Gunn, television personality and advocate who appeared on Season 6 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies and bring her passion for trans visibility and LGBTQ+ rights to the stage.

Why Raising Awareness of HIV/AIDS Matters

By participating, donating or sponsoring a team, individuals and organizations can stand together and raise money to find a cure. The most recent CDC data highlights the importance of affirming and accessible care, with an estimated 158,249 Americans (around 13% of all people living with HIV) remaining undiagnosed. Knowing your HIV status is one of the most powerful ways to contribute to ending the epidemic, as it connects patients to treatment and reduces transmission.

Funding Cuts Could Reverse HIV Prevention Gains

This year’s walk also takes place against a backdrop of uncertainty over HIV funding in the United States and around the world. Proposed budget cancellations and foreign aid pauses have raised serious concerns for long-standing programs that millions rely on.

New research from Emory University demonstrates the risks, warning that even modest reductions in HIV prevention funding could have severe consequences. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that a 3.3% annual decrease in PrEP coverage over the next decade would lead to more than 8,600 preventable HIV infections and $3.6 billion in additional healthcare costs.

With the possibility of losing hard-won progress, contributing to efforts like AIDS Walk has never been more important, and Radiant Health Centers remains committed to reaching more people across the Orange County community with HIV prevention, education and outreach. Together, by supporting HIV awareness and healthcare, we can take crucial steps towards ending the epidemic.

Contact Us for HIV Treatment in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides HIV testing and treatment services at our Irvine medical clinic. For support with PEP, PrEP, Rapid ART and other healthcare solutions, speak with our team today. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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How Access to Affirming Mental Health Care Saves Lives

Irvine mental health care access.

During September, National Suicide Awareness Month highlights how the power of affirming mental health care can save lives. With greater access to LGBTQ+ counseling services, more people in Orange County can find the support they need. However, as many in the community still face persistent barriers to dependable mental health care access, more must be done to remove these obstacles to care.

The Mental Health Crisis Affecting the LGBTQ+ Community

Throughout September, mental health organizations, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and others across Orange County have been focused on raising awareness of the challenges of accessing mental health care. Such care is particularly vital for the LGBTQ+ community, as data consistently shows a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in comparison to the general population.

A CDC survey found that 26.3% of gay, lesbian or bisexual respondents had attempted suicide within the previous 12 months. Compared with heterosexual survey respondents, they were 3.4 times more likely to have seriously considered suicide, and 5.1 times more likely to have attempted it. With an elevated risk of social stigma, discrimination and family rejection, increasing access to mental health care is essential to protecting the well-being of LGBTQ+ people.

The Life-Saving Impact of Affirming Care

The benefits of behavioral health services for LGBTQ+ teens and adults demonstrate the need for better access to care in Orange County and beyond. In practice, affirming care means that providers respect the identities of patients, have a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with being LGBTQ+, and can deliver culturally competent mental health and medical care.

Research shows that LGBTQ+ people with access to affirming providers report lower rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. For example, a Trevor Project survey found that transgender and nonbinary youth who considered their school to be gender-affirming (54% of respondents) reported lower rates of suicide attempts.

When people feel safe and able to engage in counseling sessions and group therapy, they are more likely to stay involved with the process, develop coping strategies and importantly, reach out for support during a crisis. The benefits of receiving affirming care can extend across health care in general, resulting in greater confidence in the system as a whole.

Expanding Access to Affirming Mental Health Care

At Radiant Health Centers, we are continuously striving to reach more people with affirming mental health care services. Our LGBTQ+ youth and mentorship program is providing peer support, group counseling, mentor programs and other valuable services at critical times in young people’s development. Additionally, our counseling services support those experiencing emotional challenges, HIV-related problems, substance abuse and other common issues.

During National Suicide Awareness Month and throughout the year, it’s vital that we work together to build a community where everyone has access to the affirming care they need to thrive.

Access Mental Health Support and Counseling in Irvine

Radiant Health Centers supports LGBTQ+ people and others across Orange County with affirming mental health care services. To discuss our behavioral health support and youth programs, contact our medical clinic today. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment.

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Why Suicide Awareness Month Matters for the LGBTQ+ Community

Suicide awareness and mental health support in Irvine.

Throughout September, mental health organizations, healthcare professionals and advocacy groups across the country unite to observe National Suicide Prevention Month. As the largest provider of LGBTQ+ counseling and mental health support in Orange County, Radiant Health Center is acutely aware of the disproportionate impact that suicide and mental health challenges have on the community. This month presents a vital opportunity to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide.

The Impact of Suicide Among LGBTQ+ Individuals

Suicide is a serious public health crisis in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly among young people, as well as transgender and nonbinary individuals. According to data from The Trevor Project, 35% of LGBTQ+ youth in California have seriously considered suicide in the past year, and half of them wanted mental health support, but were unable to access it. Unfortunately, the reality is that discrimination and systemic barriers to care put LGBTQ+ people of all ages and backgrounds at increased risk.

Why the LGBTQ+ Community Faces Barriers to Getting Help

National Suicide Prevention Month is a good time to reflect on the issues that can ultimately lead to a person taking their own life. For many LGBTQ+ people, discrimination is a problem experienced at home, in the workplace, in healthcare settings, and within the community. While there are many benefits to accessing behavioral health services, past negative experiences and a lack of LGBTQ+-affirming therapists cause barriers to effective care.

How National Suicide Prevention Month Makes a Difference

During the month of September, individuals and organizations across the country are focused on breaking the silence around LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide. Public engagement with the topic, both in the media and community spaces, can promote LGBTQ+ voices in the discussion and drive change. By raising awareness of these issues, we can take the steps required to connect people with the crucial mental health support services they need.

Delivering Affirming Care to Orange County’s LGBTQ+ Community

At Radiant Health Centers, we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking mental health and medical care. Our in-person and virtual therapy sessions cover many of the most significant contributors to suicidal ideation and suicide, including anxiety and depression, substance abuse, troubled relationships and HIV-related issues. For those aged 12 and above, our LGBTQ+ youth and mentorship program supports younger individuals and their families through mentorship, drop-in centers and other crucial resources.

Mental Health Support and Counseling in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers offers a range of counseling and mental health support services for the LGBTQ+ community and others in Orange County. To access support from our knowledgeable and compassionate team, contact our Irvine medical center today. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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How Telehealth Offers Compassionate Care to Youth & Adults

Telehealth appointments offer youth & adults compassionate care.

Going back to 2018, telehealth medicine has become a more routine way for doctors to provide medical and behavioral care. This has especially been the case for inclusive Orange County medical clinics focused on providing healthcare for underserved populations, like the LGBTQIA+ community, and people in urban or rural areas. Reducing barriers to comprehensive and holistic care for youth and adults is important, and telehealth appointments allow providers a way to do just that.

Telehealth Care Is Now a Normal Part of Healthcare

Telehealth availability increases overall health awareness, which supports a healthier Orange County community. As of the latest data in 2022, 86.9% of U.S. hospitals offer telehealth medicine, according to the American Hospital Association. While the pandemic bolstered the use of this technology, its continued use is based on reaching more patients with the care they need.

Telehealth medicine is a vital part of healthcare for youth and adults seeking care. More than 12.6% of Medicare recipients in the final quarter of 2023 were seen via telehealth appointments. In a meta-analysis of studies, 90% of adolescents felt they were able to discuss their medical problems well enough via telehealth visits, leading to part of their high satisfaction scores with the service. And those are just a couple of the benefits of these services.

How the Benefits of Telehealth Provide Compassionate Care

Telehealth services are key to providing and expanding detailed, destigmatized, thoughtful care for youth and adults in underserved areas and the LGBTQIA+ community. Below are some of the benefits of telehealth services.

  • Telehealth provides a confidential channel to communicate with a primary care provider, behavioral specialist or social worker. Privacy goes beyond HIPAA, and knowing that the healthcare provider on the other end of the line values that privacy is key to good health outcomes. When confidentiality is assured, more people are likely to get the care they want and need.
  • Studies have shown that telemedicine doesn’t duplicate care, but it makes more treatment options available, especially to vulnerable populations. While having a good primary care physician is a start, telehealth makes specialist care available to more people.
  • Telehealth can be a more affordable option of care for many patients, especially those who may need to have regular visits.
  • For patients dealing with chronic illness, pain or mobility issues, inclusive telehealth services provide a way to regularly meet with healthcare providers without leaving home as often. This technology reduces no-shows, which in turn can increase patient health.
  • Compassionate care for patients with HIV, STIs, mental health challenges, or people making major transitions is a key part of health and safety, individually and for the greater community. When patients know they’ll be accepted and treated with dignity as they build trusted relationships with their healthcare providers, they’re more likely to follow their continuum of care.

As you can see, telehealth services provide care to communities who need it most. No matter what the medical concern or social circumstance, help is available to you. Hopefully, a telehealth appointment can help you meet your healthcare goals soon.

Book Your Telehealth Appointment for Compassionate Care Now

If you’re looking for a judgement-free clinic that offers thoughtful primary and behavioral healthcare and social services in and around Irvine, Santa Ana, Orange County or beyond, contact Radiant Health Centers. We focus on your care, and our providers and staff are here to keep you healthy whether you’re able to visit in-person or via telehealth technologies. Call us today at (949) 809-5700, or request an appointment now.

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How Care Programs Support the Orange County Community

Irvine care programs.

Local care programs and social services are providing a lifeline for residents across Orange County. Whether helping families access nutritious meals or mental health counseling, these programs are helping meet day-to-day needs for those experiencing economic difficulties and chronic illness. With many residents dealing with challenges related to housing and healthcare, services offering coordinated support are more important than ever.

The Role of Care Programs for Orange County’s Most Vulnerable

In response to the growing social and health-related challenges in the community, Radiant Health Centers is expanding its programs to provide comprehensive, connected support. Food insecurity is one of the most urgent and visible of these challenges in our county. Whether it’s food, housing, healthcare or access to public benefits, many patients benefit from wraparound services that deliver individualized care based on their needs.

Addressing Food Insecurity in Orange County

The latest data from Feeding America indicates that Orange County’s food insecurity rate has risen to 11.4%. Realities like rising grocery costs and unstable employment result in many people struggling to get the nutrition required to maintain a healthy diet. For Orange County residents living with HIV, reduced access to vital vitamins and supplements can have long-term implications for health and well-being. Faced with challenges like these, our food pantry is helping people with HIV in Orange County receive groceries, prepared meals, and the support of nutrition counseling.

Navigating Housing Insecurity in Orange County

High rents and limited tenant protections contribute to housing instability for many in the community. Studies show that 26% of LGBTQ+ youth have been forced to leave their homes because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Housing discrimination compounds these challenges, but case management can be a lifeline—helping at-risk youth navigate housing waitlists, secure rental assistance, and find stability.

Barriers to Inclusive Healthcare

At Radiant Health Centers, delivering inclusive and compassionate health services is our primary goal. Sadly, due to a lack of insurance, transportation issues and prior negative experiences, many healthcare barriers still exist. For the LGBTQ+ community, inadequate provider knowledge about specific needs can be a challenge, while discrimination often leads to many avoiding crucial appointments and checkups.

How Care Programs Are Responding

Driven by providers like Radiant Health Centers, care programs are responding to the needs of the Orange Community with wider-reaching services. Our comprehensive case management services include a diverse range of solutions, including our food pantry, transportation to appointments, housing assistance, mental health counseling, medication support and more. By increasing access to these services and reaching more people in need, patients are less reliant on fragmented programs, allowing them to regain control of their lives.

Access Inclusive Care Programs in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers offers a range of care programs for the LGBTQ+ community and others across Orange County. To discuss social services, medical care, our food pantry and other vital programs, contact our Irvine center today. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Radiant Health Centers Welcomes Dr. Tulika Singh as Medical Director

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Radiant Health Centers welcomes Dr. Tulika Singh as medical director.

Radiant Health Centers Welcomes Dr. Tulika Singh as Medical Director, Strengthening Its Commitment to LGBTQ+ Health and HIV Care in Orange County

Irvine, Ca – August 18, 2025— IRVINE, CA — Radiant Health Centers is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Tulika Singh as its new Medical Director, bringing nationally recognized expertise in HIV care, infectious diseases, and health equity to the heart of Orange County.

Radiant Health Centers welcomes Dr. Tulika Singh as medical director.

Dr. Tulika Singh, Radiant Health Care Medical Director

A board-certified HIV Specialist and Infectious Disease physician, Dr. Singh has more than 15 years of clinical, academic, and research leadership. Her appointment underscores Radiant’s commitment to expanding inclusive, evidence-based care for the LGBTQ+ community, individuals living with HIV, and other underserved populations.

In her role, Dr. Singh leads the clinical direction of Radiant Health Centers’ medical programs, advancing its mission to reduce health disparities and provide compassionate, stigma-free healthcare to those most impacted by systemic inequities.

“At the core of my work is the belief that every person deserves access to compassionate, evidence-based care—no matter who they are or where they live,” said Dr. Singh. “I’m proud to be part of a movement that not only treats HIV and infectious diseases but also uplifts communities through education and advocacy.”

A Leader in HIV Medicine and Health Equity

Dr. Singh serves as a co-author of the national HIV Primary Care Guidelines published by the HIV Medicine Association (HIVMA) and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), helping to shape the standard of HIV care nationwide.

She also holds a faculty position as Volunteer Assistant Professor at UCI Health, mentoring the next generation of infectious disease fellows, residents, and medical students at one of Southern California’s premier academic medical centers. She served as Infectious Disease Staff Physician at UCI Health until last month.

Her dedication to reaching the most vulnerable extends beyond clinic walls. Through a virtual practice, Dr. Singh provides infectious disease specialty care to remote and underserved communities across California, ensuring no patient is left behind due to geography or access barriers.

Prior to joining Radiant, Dr. Singh served as HIV Primary care and Infectious Disease Staff Physician, Associate Chief Medical Officer & Director of Research at DAP Health in Palm Springs, where she led multiple clinical trials as Principal Investigator and helped position the region as a hub for innovation in HIV research and care.

Rooted in Compassion. Driven by Impact.

Dr. Singh’s professional affiliations include Fellow of both the American College of Physicians and IDSA. She has helped develop national board examinations for the American Academy of HIV Medicine and has been a vocal advocate on issues related to HIV and aging in California’s Coachella Valley.

Originally from India, Dr. Singh earned her medical degree from Kasturba Medical College in Manipal. She completed her Internal Medicine Residency and Chief Residency at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Ohio, followed by a Fellowship in Infectious Diseases at the Medical College of Wisconsin. She also holds a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from the University of New Haven, Connecticut.

Outside of her clinical work, Dr. Singh is a wellness advocate and world traveler. She finds joy in yoga, Pilates, meditation, and exploring cultures around the globe.

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Why LGBTQ+ Individuals Need a Will, & How to Plan With Pride

Wills and estate planning for LGBTQ+ in Orange County.

Every August, nonprofit groups, estate planning professionals, and organizations such as Radiant Health Centers observe National Make-A-Will Month. This annual event offers the perfect opportunity to create or update your will, protect your loved ones, and leave a lasting legacy through charitable giving. For many in the Orange County LGBTQ+ community, the occasion serves as a reminder to reflect on the future and take an important step towards ensuring your wishes are honored.

Why Wills and Estate Planning Matter

A will allows you to decide what happens to your money, property and belongings after you pass. However, a 2025 survey from Caring shows a sharp decline in the number of Americans with wills, dropping from 33% of respondents in 2022 to just 24% in 2025.

With procrastination cited as the primary reason for delaying estate planning, raising awareness of the need for a will this August is more important than ever. Having a will can reduce stress for you and your loved ones while protecting you from unintended outcomes.

Protect Your Estate, Assets and Loved Ones

Surprising to many, a will is more than a list of who inherits your belongings. Wills and estate plans are vital tools for protecting your estate, your relationships and your legacy. Individuals can name an executor to manage their estate, designate guardians for children and ensure unmarried couples, LGBTQ+ partners and chosen family aren’t excluded from inheritance. By committing to creating a will, you can achieve peace of mind during Make-a-Will Month.

Prepare for the Future With an Estate Plan

Sadly, sickness and accidents can happen to anyone at any time. At Radiant Health Centers, we are all too familiar with the challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals and families have to cope with when faced with severe disease and trauma. An advanced health care directive (living will) and durable power of attorney can provide much-needed clarity at this time, and ensure that relatives understand your wishes. It’s also important to review and update these documents periodically, particularly after life changes such as marriage, divorce, a property purchase and so on.

Leave an Impact With Charitable Giving

Large charitable donations often make the headlines, yet even a modest gift in your will can make a meaningful difference for local organizations here in Orange County and beyond. In fact, many in our community choose to support our Irvine LGBTQ+ medical clinic, helping it remain a welcoming healthcare home for everyone. Giving through a will allows you to create a legacy of pride that supports those most in need today, and helps provide care for future generations.

Become a Legacy Partner or Access Medical Care in Irvine

Contact Radiant Health Centers today if you would like to include our LGBTQ+ medical clinic in your estate plan. You can also reach out for support with HIV and STD testing, primary care, counseling services and other vital treatments. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Benefits of Behavioral Health Services for LGBTQ+ Teens

Top Benefits of Behavioral health services for LGBTQ+ teens.

Did you know that Orange County LGBTQ+ youth struggle to find welcoming and supportive LGBTQ-centered counseling and behavioral healthcare? At the same time, rates of anxiety, depression and suicide continue to rise among this group of young Americans. Radiant Health Centers in Irvine offers LGBTQ+ centered behavioral health and medical services that meet teens where they are, providing critical support for youth navigating mental health challenges, social pressures and identity development..

LGBTQ+ Teens Want Behavioral Health Services

In today’s current social and political climate, where their very existence is questioned and their lives are thrust into the spotlight, LGBTQ+ teenagers face a myriad of challenges, including disparities in access to mental healthcare. Access to reasonably-priced or free counseling, psychotropic medications, and gender-affirming healthcare provides foundational emotional support to help these young people live fulfilling, productive lives.

It’s important to note that mental health concerns like anxiety, depression and suicidality are not inherent to LGBTQ+ people. Often these arise from environmental factors such as school bullying, a lack of acceptance at home or in religious settings, and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

According to a 2023 Trevor Project survey, more than 81% of LGBTQ+ youth (ages 13-24) wanted mental health services, yet 56% were not able to access it. These numbers reflect the urgent need for these services in their lives.

What Are the Benefits of Behavioral Healthcare for LGBTQ+ Teens?

Knowing that LGBTQ+ teens want access to mental health services, now we can look at some of the top benefits of this necessary care.

Lowered Rates of Mental Health Challenges and Suicide

As mentioned, LGBTQ+ youth have higher rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. Access to mental health resources gives these teenagers life-saving skills and coping mechanisms to live in societies hostile to their existence. When the environment outside doesn’t change, it’s important for teens to have access to services and medications that can help them accept themselves, appreciate who they are, and stabilize internally. This care reduces the effects of anxiety and depression and reduces the number of youth (especially transgender youth), that contemplate or attempt suicide.

Gain Strategies for Dealing With Stress

As societal minorities, especially youth with ethnic heritage such as Asian, Black, Indigenous or Latinx, these teens live in the tension of multiple intersections. They tend to be stigmatized, labeled, and judged more harshly than their heterosexual peers. This stress often leads to adverse outcomes. Mental health services provide coping strategies through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based approaches.

Learn Communications

Clear communication helps teens express who they are in a world that too often misunderstands or rejects them. LGBTQ+ teens sometimes feel they must hide who they are for acceptance or for their own safety. Learning to clearly communicate with themselves and outwardly with others helps them build confidence, which is always health-promoting and beneficial.

Gain a Community of Peers

Access to mental health services can lead LGBTQ+ youth to support groups, LGBTQ+ youth mentorship programs or group therapy. In these times of sharing, students learn they are not alone and can build bonds with others. Having a supportive community is an important part of care and development.

Help Families and Kids Learn Acceptance

Good LGBTQ+ focused mental healthcare will work with families who are safe and willing to learn. Teens already have challenges through puberty and societal pressure to learn who they are, and for LGBTQ+ youth, that is compounded. Through individual, group and family therapy, youth can learn there is nothing “wrong” with them, they can gain internal fortitude and a positive view of themselves. Having an accepting, supportive family helps with this growth and reduces negative outcomes.

With kids’ lives on the line, quality mental healthcare focused on meeting the specific needs of LGBTQ+ teens is vital. There are holistic health centers dedicated to creating an environment where these kids can not only survive but thrive and live long, healthy lives.

Get the Mental Health Help You Deserve in Orange County

Find trusted mental healthcare for teens and young adults in an LGBTQ+-friendly environment at Radiant Health Centers in Irvine. Our teams are dedicated to thoughtful, specialized care, and we serve all people with mental health and medical care as well as social services. To learn more, call (849) 809-5700 or request an appointment.

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