These are stressful times, perhaps more so for elected officials than others, and maintaining one’s mental health can be a challenge. The LGBTQ+ Victory Institute and EqualityMD are now teaming up to help.
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The organizations Wednesday announced a partnership to bring inclusive, affirming mental health care to LGBTQ+ public officials across the nation. Victory Institute provides training and leadership development to out officeholders and office-seekers (its sister organization, the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, supports out candidates), and EqualityMD is an LGBTQ-inclusive telehealth platform.
EqualityMD will provide 36 affirming telehealth visits annually — including 12 mental health sessions, 12 primary care visits, and 12 urgent care appointments — along with free prescription fulfillment for 10 LGBTQ+ elected officials as part of a Victory Institute pilot program to address mental health. The free program is capped at 10, but the services will be available to others at a reduced cost.
“Delivered by compassionate, culturally competent providers, these services create a safe space where leaders can be their authentic selves, free from barriers like co-pays or insurance hurdles,” says a press release from the groups.
“Being an out LGBTQ+ elected official in this climate takes a big toll on one’s mental health, and in many places there may not be resources that address this specific need,” Victory Institute President and CEO Evan Low said in the release. “We are proud to launch this pilot program with EqualityMD that provides resources and support to our LGBTQ+ elected officials and are thankful for their partnership.”
“We’re deeply honored to join hands with LGBTQ+ Victory Institute to care for these inspiring leaders,” added Justin Ayars, founder and CEO of EqualityMD. “Our mission is to ensure every patient feels seen, heard, and valued, and we’re proud to support those shaping a brighter future.”
In 2024, Victory Institute released “Pride and Pressure,” a report on the mental health challenges faced by out elected officials. Ninety-one percent of those surveyed reported declining mental health since taking office. Seventy percent wanted to seek mental health treatment, but 49 percent did not do so, for a variety of reasons.
Also, in a lengthy national study of more than 32,000 patients, EqualityMD found that one in three LGBTQ+ individuals face health care discrimination, and one in four avoid care as a result.
The first phase of the partnership will roll out immediately.