We are taking IDAHOBIT, holding space with that … and creating a safe space. International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia is a vital moment for awareness and the internal reality of being queer. While the queer community celebrates how far we’ve come, we must also acknowledge the toll of armouring against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. Research into minority stress shows LGBTQ+ people often live with chronically elevated cortisol, a physical result of constant vigilance in spaces not built for us. We become so used to the weight of our defenses that we only notice the pressure when we enter a queer sanctuary and finally get to take it off. Collective is creating safe space for recovery. A space where the baseline stress of being a minority is replaced by the relief of being among your fellow minority. Not everyone has had the time to build armor. Young queers or those in isolation often face the world without a shield of community. Reach out, invite those who are still navigating their journey alone, help them find the protection they need to thrive. Mental Health Support is always available in your Profile section.