There is a big link between how people feel about themselves and how they behave sexually. If someone is struggling with their mental health, they might make choices they feel uncomfortable with, like saying yes to sexual situations they don’t want to, or having sex unsafely. This is one of the reasons why it is good to offer support on mental health and wellbeing. But you will need to judge each situation on a case-by-case basis, and only start this conversation if it seems appropriate. A good way to begin this conversation is to simply ask how they are. But mental health can be hard to talk about, or even recognise, so don't pressure them to speak if they don’t want to.   The advice you give them will depend on what they tell you, but here are some general things that can be useful to say. Looking after their physical health: If people look after their physical health, it can help their mental health too. This is about taking some exercise, trying to eat and sleep well, and avoiding drinking too much alcohol or taking too many recreational drugs. Joining a support group, or talking to other LGBT+ people: Suggest that it might help them to talk to other LGBT+ people who may have experienced similar things. You could try connecting them with an LGBT+ support group, online forum, helpline or an LGBT+ peer supporter. To find out what is available, search online for ‘LGBT+ support’ in your area. Self-kindness: Let them know most people feel down or worried at some point. But tell them that they don’t have to put up with feeling bad all the time, and they have a right to be happy. The first step is trying to accept and love who they are and being kind to themselves, rather than feeling guilty or bad. Let them know there is no reason to feel ashamed simply for being who they are. Here are some tips and discussion starters on mental health to share with all young people, including LGBT+ people. And on these pages, you can find tips on mental health specifically for gay men and trans people.