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BELONGING AND PRIDE: HEALING SHAME THROUGH CONNECTION

What does it mean to belong?

Belonging means being accepted for who you truly are. It means being able to show up as your full, authentic self and feel safe, respected and valued by those around you. At The Link Centre, we strive to create exactly that: a supportive, open-hearted environment where everyone is welcomed and affirmed.

We’re proud to be made up of a diverse team that includes many LGBTQ+ colleagues, tutors and friends. As we mark Pride Month, we honour the courage and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. This year’s theme, activism and social change, highlights the heart of what Pride has always stood for: progress through action.

Born from the Stonewall riots in 1969, Pride began as a powerful act of resistance against discrimination and police brutality. Today it continues as both a celebration of identity and a reminder that while progress has been made, many LGBTQ+ people still face violence, inequality and exclusion.

Why is Pride so important?

Pride is about visibility, about affirming identity and about remembering those who have fought and continue to fight, for equal rights.
At the Link Centre, we recognise that a strong sense of belonging is essential for mental wellbeing. A 2020 study by the University of Derby found that individuals with a high sense of belonging reported significantly lower levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness and hopelessness, as well as greater life satisfaction and self-worth (Malone et al., 2020).

Feeling part of something bigger than yourself can provide a powerful sense of support and connection. On the other hand, feelings of exclusion can deepen shame and isolation and contribute to poor mental health.

A landmark review of over 148 studies found social isolation is linked to increased stress levels, a greater risk of depression and anxiety and even higher rates of chronic illness and premature death. The researchers concluded that the impact of social isolation on physical health is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010).

How can we help as therapists? 

As therapists, supervisors and trainers, we see just how transformative it can be to feel truly accepted, particularly for those who have experienced marginalisation. That is why this Pride Month, we are also reflecting on the theme of belonging, which is the focus of our upcoming conference. We continue to explore how belonging supports healing, fosters connection and promotes resilience.

Pride is a time to celebrate how far we have come, but also recognise how far there is still to go. At the Link Centre, we remain committed to building spaces where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to belong, not just during Pride Month but throughout the entire year.