With LGBTQ+ rights only recently progressing in the United States, elders within the community often represent the times before, when persecution for one’s sexual orientation was rampant and forced LGBTQ+ persons into changing their behaviors for the safety of themselves and their loved ones. This persecution has understandably left many elders in the community with difficult memories and other problems to contend with today. Fortunately, SAGE and their partnership with mental wellness company and app HearMe are here to help.
Who is SAGE?
Talking about mental health means being vulnerable, especially with people you might not know well. But SAGE is no group of strangers. Here’s their story:
“SAGE is the world’s oldest and largest organization dedicated to bettering the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer and/or questioning (LGBTQ+) older folks. Founded in 1978 and based in New York City, SAGE is a national organization that provides supportive services and resources to LGBTQ+ elders and their caregivers.
SAGE also fights for public policy changes that meet the needs of LGBTQ+ seniors, offers education and technical assistance for aging providers and LGBTQ+ community groups through its National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging, and provides cultural competency training through SAGECare.”
Even if allies are few, SAGE’s long history of advocating for and supporting elder LGBTQ+ individuals showcases their unwavering commitment to the cause. This dedication extends to their partners, like HearMe, making sure they’re prepared to help create a better world for the LGBTQ+ community.
How Will HearMe Help?
HearMe, an LGBTQ+ founded company, is providing an on-demand mental wellness app in concert with SAGE which allows users to text one-on-one with trained empathetic listeners to get things off their chest, be seen, heard, and validated.
SAGE explains what the partnership means for users and how the app can benefit their everyday lives:
“In partnership with SAGE, HearMe offers exclusive, round-the-clock access to culturally competent, empathetic LGBTQ+ and allied listeners who understand your life experiences. Our listeners are trained in LGBTQ+ and aging issues. They’re here to provide you with the support, understanding, and connection you deserve.
The app offers a cozy, welcoming nook to chat with a real human when you’re feeling lonely, stressed, anxious, or just need a friendly ear to hear about your day. Pick from a smorgasbord of topics like: I Just Want to Talk; Friends, Family, and Relationships; Emotional Support; and Physical Health and Mental Well-being.There is no wait or scheduling—receive instantaneous support the moment you need it. HearMe is always confidential and anonymous. Empathetic listeners are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”
Getting your troubles off your chest can prove daunting, but once you take that first step, you’ll wonder why you waited in the first place. SAGE and HearMe eagerly await hearing what you have to say to help bring that sweet yet elusive peace of mind.
