The stigma, discrimination and criminalisation that LGBT+ people face stops many from accessing sexual health services, including HIV and STI prevention, testing, treatment and care. People may be too scared to test for HIV or to take treatment if they need it. That is why stigma, discrimination and criminalisation are major drivers of the HIV epidemic and a threat to public health. Stigma and discrimination can cause some LGBT+ people to feel anxious or depressed and lead to a range of mental health issues. It can cause some LGBT+ people to misuse alcohol and drugs and increase the sexual risks they take, all of which makes people more likely to get HIV and STIs. Stigma and discrimination can also stop LGBT+ people from getting the mental health support they need to cope with what they are experiencing. LGBT+ stigma and discrimination is wrong. It’s important to treat everyone with the same respect, regardless of their gender and sexuality. This is the only way to do your role in a professional, non-discriminatory and effective manner.