Dear Editor:

Spring quickly approaches. As the doldrums of winter melt away, this can be a difficult time of year for many. I would like to call the attention of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth in Southside to a few useful resources.

As a proud former Southside resident and openly gay woman, I understand that coming to terms with one’s sexuality can be an isolating process. I encourage LGBT youth to check out the “It Gets Better Project” website, which provides uplifting and educational content with the message that whatever challenges you face now, it does get better.

Those struggling with thoughts of suicide can talk to the excellent volunteers at the Trevor Project hotline 24/7 by call, text or online chat.

Another tip that helped me is to identify LGBT figures in a field of interest to you. For example, as a sports fan, I found Kate Fagan’s memoir on coming out as a college athlete insightful and inspiring.

It can be overwhelming to come to grips with something that a sizable faction of society deems “wrong.” As difficult as it is, I hope that you can mold your identities with your own happiness — not the approval of others — at heart.

Lisa Donaghue

Charleston, West Virginia