After the Supreme Court heard arguments in a case challenging Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy, social media users debated the practice and its impact on youth mental health. Some condemned conversion therapy as harmful, unethical, and damaging to LGBTQ+ youth and civil rights. In one widely viewed post, a user shared that their six-month experience with conversion therapy almost led them to take their life, while a reply falsely equated gender-affirming care with conversion therapy. The post received more than 5 million views as of October 23.
Recommendation
As the Supreme Court case proceeds, online discussions may raise questions about why major medical and psychological associations oppose conversation therapy. Recent narratives have also revealed misconceptions about gender-affirming care, providing an opportunity for communicators to share accurate information about how this care improves trans mental health. Communicators may also highlight support resources for LGBTQ+ youth, such as the Trevor Project’s hotline, the Trans Lifeline, and the LGBT National Help Center.
Fact-checking sources: American Psychological Association, Trevor Project
Communication resources: Find more talking points about mental health
