Support for parents and friends of people in the LGBTQI+ community
SANDTON – Information shared in the group will remain confidential and issues will be handled with respect.
Friends and family of members of the LGBTQI+ community are invited to join a support group hosted by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) on a biweekly basis.
Group facilitator Ronelda Louw has two children who are part of the LGBTQI+ community and said that groups like this help to break the stigma associated with those close to the community and help families and friends to better understand one another.
“There is always a need for people to connect with others who might have similar fears or concerns. My group will be a go-to place for those people. A platform or place where they will get empathy and understanding without any prejudices” said Louw.
She hopes parents will be able to understand that their children are more than their sexual or other orientation. And friends need to be there to be a confidant and form of support, especially when members of the LGBTQI+ community socialise in a community that still has some people who are threatening their safety.
“As a mother of children who are bisexual, I understand and want to help parents share and understand too.”
Louw said that information shared in the group will remain confidential and issues will be handled with respect. “I am not an expert but want everyone to contribute and be a support to one another.”
She explained that many parents of children in the LGBTQI+ community experience anxiety and fear when their children leave home and are deeply concerned for their safety.
Louw said the group will discuss challenges and the handling of milestones such as marriage and children that people within the community experience.
“Sadag is all about assisting with issues of depression and anxiety. This is about alleviating those emotions and creating a safe space for family and friends to talk openly so that they can live a happy life.”
Guest speakers and experts will on occasion give talks to the group on topical matters.
To find out more about how to join, call Sadag on 080 045 6789 or call support group leader Ronelda Louw on 082 749 0479.
