Body Image

Gay male body image and physical insecurities have always been a hot topic within the gay community.  Some feel that the preoccupation to look our best can have dangerous side effects.  Modern media in today's gay culture can also exacerbate body image issues by constantly idolizing "perfect", nearly impossible model standards, which gay men may then internalize and continue to perpetuate this type of physical standard.

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Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can be difficult to identify, especially for the person experiencing it.

People sometimes misunderstand domestic violence and think it is only physical abuse when actually it can be emotional, financial and/or sexual abuse as well.  Abusers often manipulate victims so that they feel they are to blame for the abuse. Sometimes LGBT abusers will try to tell their partners that “this is how it is in a LGBT relationship”.  Abusers often promise to change their behavior, and the hope for that positive change can keep a victim from identifying the pattern of abuse in the relationship.

The Gay Men's Domestic Violence Project estimates that one in four gay men experience domestic violence in some form or other, whether physical, mental, emotional, sexual, spiritual or even financial. (http://www.lambda.org/DV_background.htm)  Are you or is somebody you love affected by domestic violence?

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Stress

Working toward and maintaining a healthy state of mind can be just as important as the effort we put forth to improve our individual physical health.  Consider some of the following: 

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Fitness

How much physical activity do adults need? Physical activity is anything that gets your body moving. You need to do two types of physical activity each week to improve your health–aerobic and muscle-strengthening.

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Depression

Some gay men experience depression after coming out. This can be for a number of reasons, including loneliness, family rejection, or change in lifestyle.  Before and after coming out, few men take the time to create a personal inventory which can help you map out your future goals as openly gay men. Giving up a life in the closet doesn't have to mean giving up on your goals, which may or may not include building a relationship, family, or kids.

Dealing with the pressures of a life re-examined (especially in the midst of anti-gay environments) is rather difficult and can lead to depression. But, the good news is depression is treatable. 

Symptoms of Depression May Include the Following:

  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
  • Fatigue and decreased energy
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
  • Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
  • Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
  • Irritability, restlessness
  • Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
  • Overeating or appetite loss
  • Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
  • Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
  • Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
  • Roughly one in five gay men experience symptoms of depression according to a study conducted by the New York based Medius Institute for Gay Men’s Health (http://www.mediusinstitute.org/depression.htm). 

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