04/02/2026
On March 31st, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to strike down a Colorado law that banned conversion therapy for minors. By lifting the ban, this ruling will allow licensed therapists to attempt to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of young people in their practice, despite clear evidence that doing so causes significant harm to LGBTQ+ youth.
Read our full statement: https://mhanational.org/.../mental-health-america-is.../
Mental Health America is deeply concerned by this decision, and interim president and CEO, Pierluigi Mancini, Ph.D., issued the following statement:
"Bans on conversion therapy are a crucial prevention strategy, ensuring that those entrusted to provide mental health care do not perpetuate harm. The Court’s decision puts young people at risk, allowing the continuation of a practice that evidence shows is damaging to mental health and well-being.
Being LGBTQ+ is not a mental health condition. Attempting to change someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation — and labeling that as a form of ‘therapy’ — is unethical, inaccurate, and inconsistent with evidence-based care. Mental Health America continues to stand with LGBTQ+ youth and families in calling for protection from dangerous and discredited practices. Together, we will continue to fight for access to safe, affirming care for all.”
Conversion therapy is linked to increased rates of su***de attempts, anxiety, and depression. Leading medical and mental health organizations condemn conversion therapy as harmful and unethical. It's hard to feel mentally healthy when you feel unsafe, and many LGBTQ+ people face mental health challenges because of social attitudes about their identities.
For more information and resources about LGBTQ+ mental health, visit mhanational.org/lgbtq.
If you’re struggling and need immediate support, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
