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Member / Health Tips / LGBTQIA+ Health

LGBTQ+ Health

See your health care provider for regular check-ups.

Going to a check-up gives you the chance to talk to your health care provider about many things, not just the health exam. Some of the topics that you can talk to your health care provider about during a check-up include: 

If you’re concerned about what is confidential in your visit, discuss this with your provider.

What other steps can I take to stay healthy?

  • Eat a balanced diet. Aim to eat foods from all of the food groups every day. Limit foods with a lot of sugar, salt and unhealthy fat (such as fries and fried chicken). To learn more about the benefits of a balanced diet and resources that can help, visit HPSM’s Nutrition page.
  • Get regular exercise. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight. Don’t know where to start? Visit HPSM’s Exercise page.
  • Pay attention to how you feel. It is normal to feel sad or down on occasion. However, if you have been feeling down for long periods of time and it is not getting better, call the ACCESS line at 1-800-686-0101 for help. You are not alone.
  • Don’t smoke. Smoking harms many organs in the body, causing many diseases. There are resources that can help you quit.

Call the California Smokers Helpline to speak to a smoking cessation counselor today:

  • 1-800-NO-BUTTS (800-662-8887) 
  • En español: 1-800-NO-FUME (800-456-6386)
  • Limit alcohol use. Alcohol includes hard liquor, beer, or wine. Avoid drinking too much alcohol which can cause health problems and raise your chances of getting hurt or participating in risky behaviors.

Parents/Caregivers

How parents engage with their teen can have a big impact on their teen’s current and future health. Parents can take these steps to support the well-being of their teen:

  • Talk and Listen. Parents who talk and listen to their teen in a way that invites an open discussion can help their teen feel supported.
  • Provide Support. Parents who take the time to come to terms with how they feel about their teen’s sexual orientation will be more able to respond calmly.
  • Stay Involved. Parents who make an effort to know their teen’s friends, romantic partners, and what their teen is doing can help their teen stay safe and feel cared about.
  • Be Proactive. Parents can access organizations and online resources to learn more about how they can support their teen.

To learn more about these steps, visit the CDC's LGBT Youth page. There are also organizations that can give you support if you need it. To learn more, see the resources section below.

Resources