Navigating Change: LGBTQ+ Resilience in University Life
Written by: Josué Miranda Quiles, LICSW (Him/Él)
University life is a time of growth, exploration, and self-discovery. For LGBTQ+ students, this journey can be especially complex, as it often involves navigating personal challenges alongside academic pressures and a changing social landscape. Uncertainty—about identity, the future, or even financial stability—can feel especially overwhelming during this transitional stage of life.
This heightened sense of instability may arise from internal struggles like self-doubt or fear of rejection, as well as external challenges such as shifting institutional policies, political climates, or societal attitudes that can feel isolating or unsafe.
For many LGBTQ+ students, these intersecting uncertainties can intensify stress. The pressure to prove oneself in a world that may not fully embrace diverse identities adds another layer of difficulty. Concerns about future employment, professional acceptance, or broader societal changes can deepen feelings of fear and instability.
Strategies to Stay Grounded
Cultivating a Supportive Network
Build strong relationships with peers, mentors, and faculty who affirm your identity and offer emotional and professional support. Campus LGBTQ+ centers, student organizations, and affinity groups can offer a much-needed sense of belonging.
Practice Self-Compassion
Recognize that uncertainty is a natural part of life and growth. Allow yourself to feel unsure without judgment. Your path doesn’t need to follow a straight line or meet external expectations—what matters is honoring your own journey.
Focus on Small, Achievable Goals
Break your aspirations into manageable steps. Whether you’re working toward academic milestones, engaging in advocacy, or focusing on personal growth, small wins can help you feel more in control.
Seek Counseling and Mental Health Resources
Harvard offers many supportive resources, including individual counseling and specialized support groups for LGBTQ+ students. These services can help you process difficult emotions and develop tools for managing anxiety and stress.
Advocate for Yourself and Others
Find ways to shape the community around you. Whether by joining LGBTQ+ advocacy groups or simply voicing your needs, active engagement can help you reclaim agency and foster positive change.
Grounding yourself in community, self-compassion, and intentional action won’t erase uncertainty, but it can help you face it with resilience, clarity, and courage.
Harvard Resources
Learn about support and initiatives on campus:
- Harvard Community and Campus Life: https://sites.harvard.edu/ccl/
- Office of BGLTQ Student Life: https://bgltq.fas.harvard.edu/
- Harvard University Student Wellbeing: https://www.harvard.edu/wellbeing/
- Contact your Student Affairs office at your school or department
Counseling and Mental Health Support
Need support now? Call the CAMHS Cares Line at 617-495-2042, a 24/7 confidential support line for registered Harvard students. Whether you’re in crisis or simply need someone to talk to, a counselor is always available.
- Visit the CAMHS website for more resources or to make an initial consultation: https://camhs.huhs.harvard.edu
- Visit CAMHS Calendar for affinity and support groups during the academic year: https://calendar.college.harvard.edu/camhs
National LGBTQ+ Support Resources
The Trevor Project
- Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth
- Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
- https://www.thetrevorproject.org
Trans Lifeline
- Peer support for trans people, by trans people
- Call 877-565-8860
- https://www.translifeline.org
LGBT National Help Center
- Talk lines and resources for all ages
- https://www.glbthotline.org
Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
- Advocacy, resources, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals
- https://www.hrc.org