How to build community
While social media has grown to be an integral part of daily life, views on the impacts of social platforms are varied. Globally, 45% of people believe that social media connectivity has positively affected the public acceptance of people with differences. However, the U.S. public opinion is split on this topic. Moreover, 79% of Americans believe that social media has led to more political division.
In any case, it’s hard to deny the community-building aspects of social media. This can certainly have a positive effect if used correctly. In particular, LGBTQIA+ parents can harness social media to share their unique experiences with others to whom they may not otherwise have access. This opens up valuable opportunities for connection and support for these parents.
If you feel as though you are sometimes alone in the LGBTQIA+ parenting world, social media connection could be the key to finding your community. Learn how to leverage social media platforms for connectivity by using the following tips and tricks.
Dispelling Outdated Parenting Advice
Traditional parenting advice often fails to address the specific challenges and nuances faced by non-conforming parents. To bridge this gap, it is crucial for LGBTQIA+ parents to share their experiences and offer updated advice that reflects their unique perspectives. By talking about your parenting journey, you can debunk outdated parenting advice. For instance, it used to be considered spoiling your child if you comforted them every time they cried; now it is clear that is no longer the case. By finding community online, you can offer practical tips and suggestions to help other people navigate the complexities of modern parenting and put outdated parenting advice to rest for good.
By leveraging social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, you can share articles, videos, and personal anecdotes that challenge stereotypes and provide fresh insights into parenting. Whether it’s addressing misconceptions about non-traditional family structures or discussing inclusive parenting techniques, sharing these experiences can not only educate others but also foster a sense of belonging and solidarity within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Connecting With Others Through Video
Creating engaging and impactful content is essential for reaching a wider audience and building a strong online community. One effective way to enhance your content creation is by acquiring video editing skills. Video content allows you to share your stories as an LGBTQIA+ parent in a visually compelling manner, capturing the attention of viewers and effectively conveying your message.
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are prioritizing short-form video content for this exact reason, so learning how to effectively craft a quick, engaging video is key. Also, look for trending sounds that other people in the LGBTQIA+ community are using. Keep up to date with current events to comment on, and use hashtags so others in the community can find you. Often, being authentic and real is the best way to connect, so don’t stress too much about production quality.
Raising Mental Health Awareness
Being yourself on the internet is easier said than done. It takes courage to open up and be vulnerable to strangers. However, doing so can turn those strangers into a great support system when you need it most. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing personal experiences at first, you can share resources on mental health for LGBTQIA+ parents. Look for forums dedicated to the topic and join the conversation.
This way, you can spread awareness about mental health struggles that you may be going through. Moreover, you can talk to other LGBTQIA+ parents about how to raise mentally strong children. It may be more common and accepted to have same-sex parents today, but it’s still important to be aware of the unique struggles your children may face.
For example, around half of the people who identified as LGBTQIA+ while taking mental health screens from Mental Health America also reported being between the ages of 11 and 17. This shows that young teens in the community are seeking help online actively already for mental health issues.
Furthermore, the LGBTQIA+ community deals with unique mental health struggles. They are more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to deal with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideating and attempts. LGBTQIA+ students are 150% more likely to not go to school due to fears about emotional and physical safety.
Talk to others in the LGBTQIA+ community on social media about how to foster emotional intelligence, self-esteem, resilience, and positive relationships in your children. By sharing articles, tips, and personal stories related to mental health, you can help combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues within the community. This can also provide support and guidance to other parents who may be facing similar challenges, promoting a culture of understanding, empathy, and acceptance within the LGBTQIA+ parenting community.
Creating Boundaries
While social media can be a powerful tool for connection and community-building, it is important for you and other LGBTQIA+ parents to establish healthy boundaries to protect your own well-being and that of your children. Understanding the potential effects of social media on mental health is crucial in creating a positive and balanced online presence.
It’s crucial to create healthy social media boundaries for your children’s well-being. Make sure to navigate the social media world with care, ensuring that your children are not adversely affected by excessive screen time, cyberbullying, or the unrealistic comparisons often perpetuated on social media. It’s also important to protect their privacy. This is up to your discretion, but make sure to ask them if certain information is okay to be shared, including their images or unique situations.
Moving Forward With LGBTQIA+ Parenting Communities on Social Media
Parenting in same-sex relationships brings its own unique joys and challenges. Social media platforms can be utilized to share personal experiences, celebrate milestones, and offer guidance to other parents in same-sex or non-conforming relationships. By fostering a sense of community and normalizing different types of parenting, you can help break down barriers and promote acceptance and inclusivity.
Social media provides an excellent outlet for LGBTQIA+ parents to share experiences, offer updated parenting advice, and build a supportive online community. By addressing the unique aspects of parenting in LGBTQIA+ relationships, you can harness the power of social media to inspire, educate, and connect with others who are on a similar path. Together, you can foster a sense of belonging and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ families everywhere — including yours.
Image Source: Pexels
Author: Ainsley Lawrence
Ainsley Lawrence is a writer who enjoys discussing how business and professionalism intersect with the personal, social, and technological needs of today. She is frequently lost in a good book.
