When you hear the word affirm, what comes to mind? For many of us, it’s “positive affirmations,” those short, encouraging phrases we repeat to remind ourselves of our worth. While those are powerful, affirming care means something deeper. It’s about making sure everyone receives the support they need to feel safe, respected, and truly seen.

For LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially those who are transgender or non-binary, affirming care can be life-changing. More than half (54%) of transgender and nonbinary young people found their school to be gender-affirming, and those who did reported lower rates of attempting suicide (The Trevor Project). Sadly, our health care system hasn’t always met these needs. Many people have faced bias, misunderstanding, or been denied care altogether. That’s why affirming care matters—it helps rebuild trust, ensures safety, and supports overall health.

So, what is gender-affirming care?

It includes medical, mental health, and social support for people whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. Research shows that access to this care can improve mental health, lower depression and anxiety, and reduce the risk of suicide. Denying this care, on the other hand, can make things much worse.

This isn’t just about medicine or treatment—it’s about dignity. Everyone deserves to feel supported in their identity, and gender-affirming care helps make that possible. For LGBTQIA+ youth and adults, this care provides a foundation for hope, healing, and better mental health.

As we celebrate Pride 2025, let’s keep pushing for care that sees every person for who they are. Affirming care isn’t extra—it’s essential.