FastTrackerMN Blog Archives

Affirming Care Matters: Mental Health, Advocacy, and Support for LGBTQIA+ Communities

Publicado en junio 3, 2025 por Leah@FastTrackerMN.org

Welcome to the Summer edition of the FastTrackerMN newsletter! We’re focusing on the importance of affirming mental health care for LGBTQIA+ individuals. You’ll find information on what affirming care really means, why it matters, and how to find inclusive providers. We’re also sharing ideas for fun and restorative activities to enjoy this summer, including local events that celebrate community and connection. Plus, check out where the FastTrackerMN team will be this season. We would love to see you out and about!

Affirming mental health care for LGBTQIA+ individuals means offering validation, support, and a safe space to share their experiences without judgement; helping individuals with their unique needs regarding gender, sexuality, and identity.

We wanted to share statistics with you to highlight the mental health challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. Statistics are from The Trevor Project, KFF, and Mental Health America.

“39% of LGBTQIA+ young people experienced suicidality in the past year, including 46% of transgender and nonbinary young people”

“8% of LGBTQIA+ individuals & nearly 27% of transgender individuals report being denied needed health care”

“50% of LGBTQIA+ young people who wanted mental health care in the past year were unable to get it”

“66% of LGBTQIA+ young people reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety”

“53% of LGBTQIA+ young people reported experiencing symptoms of depression”

“40% LGBTIA+ Individuals who got a mental health appointment had to wait a month or more”

Having access to LGBTQIA+ affirming spaces can truly make a difference. People of all ages in the LGBTQIA+ community benefit from feeling seen, respected, and safe. This support can look like access to gender-affirming clothing, gender-neutral bathrooms, inclusive language, and having one’s identity and pronouns honored at home, work, school, and in healthcare. These things may seem small to some, but data shows they can have a huge impact on mental health and overall well-being.

Feeling affirmed isn’t just nice, it’s necessary. It’s important that we continue to show up for the LGBTQIA+ community by staying educated, listening with empathy, and speaking out against injustice. Everyone deserves care and the right to be their authentic selves without fear.

When looking for providers, it can be really important to find ones that are affirming, such as those with LGBTQIA+ specialties, who use inclusive language, or who offer gender-affirming services. It is important to find providers you are comfortable with, where you feel you can openly share your concerns with understanding and without judgment.

At FastTrackerMN we understand the importance of being able to find a provider you can trust, someone who can truly help. When searching for providers on FastTrackerMN, use the keywords “LGBTQ+ Providers” and “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Allied.” We want to make it as easy as possible for you to find the right fit. We also recommend looking at the bios of individual provider profiles to see if you think they would be a good personal fit.

If you meet with a provider and don’t feel like they are the right match, don’t be afraid to switch. It’s crucial that you feel heard and respected during appointments. You deserve care that sees you, supports you, and affirms who you are.

When supporting a loved one who is LGBTQIA+, it always starts with listening without judgment. It’s important to be someone they can talk to about mental health or healthcare concerns. LGBTQIA+ adults are twice as likely as non-LGBTQIA+ adults to report negative experiences while receiving health care (KFF, 2024).

As an ally, it’s critical to educate yourself and learn basic LGBTQIA+ issues and concerns. There are many online resources. If a loved one is struggling, ask how you can best support them. Check in and let them guide you. Some ways to show up or offer support include attending appointments for emotional support and advocacy, or helping with tasks like finding LGBTQIA+ friendly mental health providers, filling out forms, or even making a call. Those things can feel overwhelming.

Make sure to check in regularly with your loved ones. Mental health can be impacted by healthcare stress, so small check-ins matter while they’re navigating care. Consciously encourage them and affirm their strength in advocating for themselves and navigating a system that wasn’t always built for them. And remember to celebrate the wins too, big or small. Advocating for themselves, showing up to therapy, or setting boundaries is a big deal.

Looking for ways to recharge this summer? Whether you’re into live music, outdoor movies, or celebrating Pride, there are plenty of local events to lift your spirits and support your mental well-being. Taking time to enjoy your community, connect with others, and do things you love is an important part of caring for your mental health. Here are some fun, affirming activities happening around the Twin Cities this season.

“Enjoy live music throughout the summer! This year, we welcome new and returning artists to our series, which occurs June through August every Sunday afternoon from 1:30-3 p.m. and Thursday evenings from 6-7:30 p.m. Music selection ranges from blues to folk, brass quintets to a Bob Dylan tribute band. There’s something for everyone AND the series is included with your general daily admission to the Arboretum.”

“This year Minneapolis Music in the Parks features more than 200 free outdoor concerts at nine park venues between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Movies in the Parks will host a free outdoor movie screening on an inflatable screen somewhere in the park system on more than 70 summer nights.”

Catch a Saint Paul Saints game at CHS Field! The Saints have a strong tradition of fun and entertainment, known for their engaging promotions and family-friendly atmosphere.

The Como Zoo hosts music and other fun events outside of its regularly scheduled zoo programming. It’s a beloved, free-admission destination for families, offering animal exhibits, gardens, and seasonal entertainment all year long. Whether you’re visiting the animals or attending a summer concert, it’s a great spot to enjoy the day.

“The Minneapolis Farmers Market connects local farmers and gardeners with Twin Cities residents to build a sense of community over a shared love of food. Our market empowers visitors to develop a personal connection to the food they eat by learning where it comes from, how it was treated, and how to prepare it directly from the grower.”

“The Twin Cities Jazz Fest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission of bringing communities together to enjoy and appreciate the art form of jazz and inspire new generations of youth. There are two outdoor stages at Mears Park as well as over 18 St. Paul venues that have jazz programmed throughout the weekend. The Jazz Fest is a walking event. Most of the stages and venues are within walking distance.”

“Join us for a month-long celebration of Pride at the Twin Cities Pride Festival! Throughout June, we have a diverse lineup of events that celebrate love, equality, and diversity. From our iconic Pride Parade to Family Fun Day, Cheers to Pride, and our Grand Marshal Reception, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come together with friends, family, and allies to honor the LGBTQIA+ community and create lasting memories.”

Head to the Target Center to cheer on our four-time championship WNBA team, The Minnesota Lynx. Join this team bandwagon and you’ll no longer have to experience the all too familiar heartache of Minnesota sports fandom.

The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley is a year-round destination focused on connecting people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. Spanning 485 acres, the Zoo is home to over 4,500 animals and features immersive trails like the Tropics Trail and the new Treetop Trail. The Zoo is also a national leader in conservation and education, supporting global wildlife efforts and offering programs for all ages.

“Enjoy free admission every Thursday night during extended gallery hours. Discover current exhibitions, join a free tour, drop in for art activities, or catch a short film of your choice in the Bentson Mediatheque.”

We love connecting with the community and spreading the word about mental health and substance use disorder resources! This summer, the FastTrackerMN team will be out and about at local events, tabling, sharing free materials, and answering questions about how to find care. If you see us, stop by and say “hello”! We’d love to meet you and help however we can.

A fun celebration for LGBTQIA+ youth and allies featuring music, food, and community connection.

Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Como Park Picnic Pavilions (1199 Midway Pkwy, St Paul, MN 55103)

One of the largest Midwest Pride festivals with a parade, performances, and a welcoming space for all.

Date: Saturday & Sunday, June 28–29, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Loring Park, Minneapolis, MN

Mental Health Day
at the State Fair
A special day at the State Fair dedicated to mental health education, resources, and support.

Date: Sunday, August 25, 2025
Time: All day
Location: Dan Patch Park, Minnesota State Fairgrounds

A community event celebrating LGBTQIA+ pride with live entertainment, vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Date: Saturday, June 22, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Bloomington Civic Plaza

A community walk and event focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: 26079 Goodview Avenue, Wyoming, MN 55092

Want to see FastTrackerMN at an event? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at outreach@fasttrackermn.org to connect. Your suggestions help us engage with the community where it matters most.

Thank you for reading and joining us in supporting and affirming the LGBTQIA+ community. Together, through education, advocacy, and connection, we can help create a world where everyone feels seen, safe, and valued. Stay engaged, stay compassionate, and take care of your mental health this summer!

How Nature Helps Your Mental Health

Publicado en abril 28, 2025 por Leah@FastTrackerMN.org

Nature does wonders for our mental health, lowering stress, boosting mood, and helping us feel more connected. This Spring, step outside, take a deep breath, and let the outdoors support your well-being!

Check out some of our other environment and nature-themed social media posts!

ADHD: Why Women Are Diagnosed Later

Publicado en marzo 31, 2025marzo 31, 2025 por Leah@FastTrackerMN.org

ADHD can show up differently in women & girls, and because of this, it’s often not recognized until later in life. Instead of the typical signs of hyperactivity or impulsivity, women with ADHD may struggle with focus or organization in ways that are easy to overlook. In this blog post, we’ll explore how ADHD affects women & girls, why it’s diagnosed later, and how it can connect to anxiety.

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects focus, attention, and organization. Symptoms can include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, making it difficult to stay on track with tasks. You might also hear ADHD referred to as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), a term once used to describe the condition when hyperactivity isn’t present. However, ADD is no longer an official diagnosis, it’s now considered part of ADHD, which includes three types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined type. While many people associate ADHD with energetic young boys who can’t sit still, the reality is much broader, and for many women, a diagnosis comes much later in life.

Did you know that boys are diagnosed with ADHD about three times more often than girls in childhood? However, in adulthood, the diagnosis ratio between men and women is nearly 1:1. This suggests that many girls are overlooked when they’re young, leading to years, sometimes decades, of struggling without answers.

There are several reasons why ADHD in women often goes unnoticed until adulthood. Some key factors include:

Bias in ADHD Research: Historically, ADHD research has focused more on how symptoms present in boys, leading to a limited understanding of how it looks in girls.

Differences in Symptoms: Girls and women may experience ADHD differently, which can lead to misdiagnosis or being dismissed entirely.

Societal Pressures & Expectations: Women often feel pressure to conform to social norms, which can lead to masking symptoms and going undiagnosed.

Many women with ADHD experience symptoms that don’t fit the stereotypical hyperactive image. Some common signs include:

Racing thoughts that make it hard to stay on one topic
Working significantly harder than peers to achieve the same success
Fear of rejection leading to clinging to relationships, even unhealthy ones
Interrupting or talking too much
Difficulty maintaining focus
Chronic disorganization
Lack of motivation
Fidgets often

Some of these don’t seem like “classic” ADHD, which is one reason why so many women don’t get diagnosed until adulthood.

Women with ADHD often struggle with focus, organization, and racing thoughts, symptoms that can be mistaken for anxiety. Many also develop coping strategies that mask these struggles, making it harder to recognize ADHD as the root issue. As a result, many women receive an anxiety diagnosis instead, leading to treatment that doesn’t fully address their needs.

How Anxiety can feel and present in women with ADHD:

Sensory Overload: Everyday environments, like bright lights or loud noises, can overwhelm and trigger anxiety.
Endless Worrying: Constantly thinking, “Did I forget something?” or “What if I mess up?”
Fear of Failure or Rejection: Past experiences of criticism lead to anxiety about trying new things or making mistakes.
Physical Anxiety Symptoms: Rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and muscle tension.
Perfectionism and Procrastination: The fear of doing something imperfectly often leads to delays and increased stress.

If you think you’ve been misdiagnosed or maybe struggle with ADHD & anxiety, it’s important to meet with a medical professional.

Masking happens when someone hides their mental health symptoms to fit societal expectations or avoid judgment. It is a coping mechanism where individuals consciously or unconsciously suppress their ADHD traits in order to appear neurotypical. While this can help in certain social or professional settings, it often comes at a significant mental and emotional cost. Over time, constant masking can lead to exhaustion, identity confusion, and even mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

Perfectionism The pressure to “do it all” can hide symptoms like forgetfulness and inattention.
Quiet Compliance Women may suppress their struggles to meet expectations and avoid conflict.
Overcompensation Working extra hard to appear organized and focused while privately feeling overwhelmed.
Mimicking Peers Observing and imitating the behavior of neurotypical peers to avoid standing out.

Because of these societal pressures, many women do not realize they have ADHD until adulthood, when the demands of life become too much to manage through masking alone. Understanding and unlearning these patterns can be key to embracing an ADHD diagnosis and finding effective coping strategies.

ADHD in women and girls is often misunderstood, but it’s a real condition, not a weakness. With the right support, those with ADHD can thrive by leveraging their strengths. If you suspect you have ADHD or another mental health condition, talking with a medical professional is an important step toward getting the right diagnosis and support.

If you’re ready to begin, FastTrackerMN.org can connect you to the help you need!

Try using these keywords and services when searching! Keywords: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) Services: Neuropsychological Testing, Talk Therapy, or General Psychiatry

TEAM Q & A

Publicado en diciembre 17, 2024enero 31, 2025 por Leah@FastTrackerMN.org

At FastTrackerMN, we’re all about helping people find the mental health and substance use disorder resources they need. But behind the work we do, we’re a group of real people with unique stories, passions, and interests. In this blog, we’re giving you a chance to get to know us better! Check out our answers to some fun questions and learn what makes us tick—both at work and outside of it.

Linda: It’s such a great reflection of Minnesotans’ commitment to each other. Together we can always do more! Wellstone was right – “We all do better when we all do better.”

Samantha: I have been with FT for almost 6 years. I am a SUD Provider and know how hard it can be to get someone into a specific level of care quickly. I am passionate about FT because it is easy for people to find the care they need and deserve. I am a LADC because I want everyone to get into the right care!

Jessica: I firmly believe that mental health/SUD care should be easily available to anyone who needs it. The current process of getting care is way too complicated to navigate; working at FastTrackerMN, I know that I’m doing my part to make it easier for everyone.

Marissa: I’ve had a lifelong journey with mental health, so working at FastTrackerMN feels deeply meaningful to me. Knowing that our resources help others, whether in big or small ways, truly fuels my passion. On a personal note, I used FastTrackerMN to find my therapist, and I’m continually grateful for how quickly I was able to get help and for her guidance in my healing journey.

Chandler: Mental health and SUD care should be accessible to everyone. FastTrackerMN is helping Minnesotans find the care they need; fast. As someone with lived experience, this is very important to me. I’m really proud to be a part of this team.

Leah: Having struggled with my own mental health, I’m passionate about advocating for mental health and making sure others have the support they deserve. Through my work at FastTrackerMN, I get to help make mental health resources more accessible so others can find the support they need.

Linda: Coconut milk chai – extra hot, year round

Samantha: Sugar Free Caramel Iced coffee

Jessica: Hot Chocolate

Marissa: Anything with lots of espresso

Chandler: Chamomile tea with lemon

Leah: White Dragon Boba Tea

Linda: Anything outside except in the winter.

Samantha: I am a mom of 2 very active boys, so I love to watch them on the field or ice, go to their scout and school activities, and play with them and our pup at home. When I am not with them, I love my group of gals, going to bingo, lunch/dinner, shopping, or the movies!

Jessica: Camping, gardening, baking, and cooking.

Marissa: I am a youth swim coach! It is super rewarding and keeps me youthful. I also foster dogs through Ruff Start Rescue with my husband. We love pitbulls!

Chandler: I love seeing good live music. I enjoy arts and crafts as well, anything to keep my hands busy.

Leah: I like crafting, baking, playing board games, and going to concerts!

Linda: Fun with Dick and Jane

Samantha: Harry Potter

Jessica: Top Chef

Marissa: I really like all of Emily Henry’s books and religiously follow Great British Bake Off.

Chandler: My favorite movie is The Princess Bride. I have so many favorite tv shows, and there are too many books to name!

Leah: My favorite show is Broad City and I love the movie WALL-E!

Linda:

Samantha: or

Jessica:

Marissa: or

Chandler:

Leah: or

Linda: Mexico is my current favorite, and I want to go to Croatia ASAP.

Samantha: I loved Cayman Island; I am taking my kids on a Disney cruise in the Bahamas this spring and I am sure we will loooove those islands. We are visiting 5!

Jessica: Dream trip would be to Banff National Park!

Marissa: Anywhere Taylor Swift is.

Chandler: I love visiting my family in San Francisco, and my dream destinations are Liverpool and Belfast.

Leah: My favorite vacation was to Puerto Rico because of all the beautiful colors and sights. I would love to travel to Peru or Albania!

Linda: Workout or Hangout – depends on the day, and the mood.

Samantha: Being With my two boys! They still want to snuggle and hang with me so I am soaking that up as long as I can!

Jessica: A long walk with my dog and music.

Marissa: Spending time with all of my pets and my husband snuggled up to a funny TV show or movie.

Chandler: I love to unwind by ordering takeout and watching a movie at home with my basset hound.

Leah: My favorite way to unwind is snuggling with my cats and listening to my favorite music or watching a comfort show!

Thanks for taking a moment to get to know our team! At FastTrackerMN, we’re all about supporting people and making mental health and substance use disorder resources more accessible. Stay tuned for more updates from us—we can’t wait to keep sharing our journey and all the ways we’re working to make a difference!

Community Newsletter – Holiday Edition

Publicado en noviembre 12, 2024noviembre 12, 2024 por Leah@FastTrackerMN.org

Welcome to FastTrackerMN’s Holiday Edition! Meet our team and discover tips for navigating holiday stress, practicing self-care, and setting realistic goals. We’re here to support your well-being this season with creative ideas & helpful resources.

Season’s greetings from FastTrackerMN! We would love to take a moment to introduce ourselves. We are women. We are mothers. We are LGBTQIA+ and allied. We are people living with mental illness. We are neurodivergent. We are in recovery.

We have come together to make finding care in Minnesota free, easy, and accessible. We are passionate about our mission to link the public to mental health and substance use disorder providers and resources.

To get to know a little more about us individually, visit us on social media!

Try going for a walk! Whether a brisk walk or long stroll, getting outside and walking can be very grounding. Exercise has been proven to reduce stress, not to mention it’s a good way to get some time away from relatives. Sometimes we just need a break! For some of us, walking isn’t an option and that is ok; we all have different abilities. Guided meditation is another helpful tool that is easily accessible. Don’t worry about starting a 30-minute practice in a time of great stress. That isn’t realistic. Instead, you can try a 2-minute guided meditation for free on YouTube. Remember to slow down and give yourself some time to breathe.

The stress of the holidays may increase our desire to use substances. Not to mention the fact that we may be exposed to them during family or friend gatherings. We like to set ourselves up for success by finding meetings to attend even when we are out of town.

It is totally normal to feel overwhelmed this time of year. Remember that you are not alone. If you or someone you know is looking for professional mental health and substance use disorder resources, please visit fasttrackermn.org.

During the holidays, social media can be a time and energy drain. It can also be a place where we compare ourselves to other people. “Comparison is the thief of joy” is more accurate now than ever. If you find yourself mindlessly scrolling and comparing yourself to other people or families, it may be time for a break.

This one is a no-brainer. Not enough quality sleep can greatly affect our mental health. It is recommended that a healthy adult gets 7 hours of sleep a night. We know that this may vary depending on the person. Be mindful of caffeine intake. Try limiting screen time and avoid using devices within 30 minutes of bedtime. Try doing a calming activity before bed like journaling or reading.

Eating can be one of the biggest stressors during the holidays. Many people struggle with eating disorders or disordered eating. It can be helpful to discuss navigating food/meals with a therapist or trusted professional. Please remember to be gentle with yourself.

We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to buy gifts for the holidays. Sometimes this just isn’t in our budget. Instead, think homemade! Try making a homemade card with your favorite cookie recipe or a crafted gift such as a knitted scarf. Gifts should come from the heart and not stretch the wallet!

We don’t know about you, but we have decided that New Year’s resolutions are a thing of the past. The pressure of creating a new, unattainable goal at the start of the year is not helping our mental health! Instead, we wanted to offer some alternative ideas to New Year’s resolutions and discuss realistic goal-setting throughout the year.

Creating a mood or vision board can be a fun way to set your intentions for the year in an artistic way with less pressure. You can invite some friends over for a craft night or do it by yourself! Gather some magazines or print out some inspiration from Pinterest. Some topics you could focus on include wellness and self-care, personal growth, career development, relationships, creativity, travel, mindfulness, spirituality, community, and so much more. You can mix and match these topics based on your interests and aspirations for the new year! Consider using images, colors, and textures that resonate with you to create an inspiring mood board. This should be a fun activity with low stress and no right answer. Create something you enjoy and hang it where you can see it throughout the year!

Rather than establishing a whole new goal for the new year, consider coming up with a word or phrase to set your intentions. This approach alleviates the pressure to meet a specific goal and provides a healthy reminder. Here are some ideas for words and phrases.

Instead of setting one goal, try establishing smaller, more attainable goals throughout the year. When you set goals, it’s important to remember to make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely (SMART).

Focus on a specific aspect you want to improve, avoiding overly broad or general goals. Make sure it is something you can measure over time, and determine how you plan to track that goal, whether in your head, using an app, or a spreadsheet. What works best for you?

Setting an achievable goal means creating a goal you can reach. It’s better to start small than to set a huge goal that is hard to meet. Ensure that your goal is relevant, meaning it should be something important and helpful in your life. Lastly, give your goal a timeline. A year is a long time, consider checking in with yourself in a few days, a week, or a month.

Take the pressure off setting your goals. At the end of the day, if you don’t achieve your goal, that’s okay. Life happens, and sometimes we aren’t able to accomplish what we wanted or planned. Be flexible with yourself; if you didn’t meet your goal, try setting a smaller one or waiting until you feel ready to try again.

Your progress is important, but it’s not always linear. Change takes time, so be kind to yourself and set realistic expectations that make you feel good. We wish you all a happy holiday season!