IDAHOBIT 2026: Celebrate LGBTQIA+ Awareness

Did you know that it was only in May 1990 that homosexuality was removed from the World Health Organization’s (WHO) list of diseases? That means many of us are living in a world where, within our lifetime, being LGBTQIA+ was still officially classified as a mental disorder. Not just something socially misunderstood but something embedded in medical systems as an “illness”.

For many folks, that isn’t distant history. It shaped their childhoods, their safety, their relationships, and their ability to speak openly about who they are. It is a history marked by silence, concealment, and fear; where simply being yourself could come with real consequences.

Why May 17th actually matters

Each year on May 17th, we mark IDAHOBIT: the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. The date commemorates the WHO’s 1990 decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness, marking a significant moment in both human rights and mental health history.

This year’s theme, “At the Heart of Democracy” invites us to think deeply about what this history means. We often think of democracy as voting or politics, but at its core it is about fairness, inclusion and the right to be heard. It asks whether our systems like schools, healthcare, laws and communities treat everyone equally.

From this perspective, the historical classification of LGBTQIA+ identities as pathological reflects how institutions define who is considered “normal” and therefore who is granted full belonging. When people are excluded, silenced or forced to hide in order to be accepted, democracy is not fully achieved.

Progress… But not for everyone… and not all at once

While homosexuality was declassified in 1990, transgender identities were not removed from the mental health disorders chapter until 2019, when “gender incongruence” was reclassified in ICD-11. These shifts are important but they are also very recent. They highlight how slowly systems can take to change and how long outdated ideas can continue to shape lived experience.

From a psychological perspective, diagnostic frameworks do more than describe symptoms and conditions. They influence social attitudes and shape how people understand themselves and others. Even though classifications have changed, their impact still lingers. Many LGBTQIA+ people continue to carry echoes of that history through internalised stigma, fear of “coming out”, or memories of rejection and harm.

Let’s look at the stats

Research consistently shows that higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance use and suicidality in LGBTQIA+ populations are not due to identity itself, but are strongly linked to minority stress. That is, ongoing experiences of stigma, discrimination, and marginalisation. When people do not feel safe to be themselves, their mental health suffers; when they are affirmed and supported, their wellbeing improves. This is where the connection to democracy becomes clearer: a society that enables people to live openly, safely and with dignity fosters both individual wellbeing and meaningful inclusion

What it can feel like to seek support

Given this context, it is no surprise that seeking psychological support can come with uncertainty. Many folks find themselves wondering:
Will I be respected here?
Will I need to defend or hide who I am?
Will I be seen as a whole person?

At Q Psychology, we aim to provide a space where those questions do not need to be carried into the room. Our approach to affirming care recognises the realities that shape people’s lives and focuses on creating an environment where identity does not need to be explained or justified only respected, understood, and supported. You can learn more about our practice here: https://www.qpsychology.com.au/services/gender-service

So now you know the history - What now?

IDAHOBIT is not only a marker of progress but also a reminder of ongoing responsibility. Real inclusion requires committed action. It calls on ALL of us, including mental health professionals, to help create environments where LGBTQIA+ people are not merely accommodated, but genuinely valued, affirmed and nurtured.

The past may shape the present but it does not have to define the future - how can you get involved?

Get involved in IDAHOBIT this year!

There is no single way to take part. Whether online or in your local community, there are many ways to get involved.

• Find events near you through IDAHOBIT’S website: https://may17.org/events-worldwide/
• Search your local council websites (such as Yarra, Boroondara, Manningham, or Maribyrnong) for IDAHOBIT events
• Check your school, university or workplace news and event pages
• Look on Facebook Events or Eventbrite using “IDAHOBIT” plus your location

What kinds of events happen?

• Flag raising ceremonies at council buildings
• Morning teas or fundraising lunches in schools and workplaces
• Talks, panels, and workshops exploring LGBTQIA+ experiences and allyship
• Social events like drag bingo, film screenings, youth events and community gatherings

Even if you don’t attend an event, you can still be part of IDAHOBIT in meaningful ways:

• Wearing rainbow colours, sharing posts or using a badge are all ways you can show support!
• Start conversations with friends, classmates, or family
• Suggest events in your school, workplace, or community. You can register your event here: https://may17.org/get-involved/
• Learn more by following LGBTQIA+ voices and listening to lived experiences or consuming queer media
• Support others by challenging harmful jokes or comments when it is safe to do so
• Create inclusive spaces through respectful language and affirming behaviour —for example, normalising pronoun sharing and gently correcting misgendering in a supportive way.

These actions may seem small, but together they create real change. Afterall, IDAHOBIT is not just about one day, it is about building a world where everyone feels safe, seen and included.