LGBTQ+ History Month: Ameen’s Journey with Nafsiyat
At Nafsiyat, we believe that mental health support should be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and accessible to all. For many LGBTQ+ individuals from marginalised backgrounds, finding a space where they feel understood can be life-changing. This LGBTQ+ History Month, we share the story of Ameen*, a non-binary refugee who sought support at Nafsiyat to rebuild their life after fleeing persecution.
Ameen’s Background
Ameen, originally from Sudan, was born and raised in Saudi Arabia. They always knew they were different but had to suppress their identity due to the country’s strict legal and social stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Facing systemic discrimination and the threat of legal repercussions, Ameen made the difficult decision to flee to the UK, where they were eventually granted refugee status.
However, the challenges didn’t end there. The process of rebuilding a life in a new country, compounded by cultural disorientation, isolation, and mental health struggles, left Ameen feeling overwhelmed. With no secure housing and a history of trauma, their anxiety worsened, and they began experiencing suicidal ideation.
Navigating Trauma and Identity in Therapy
When Ameen first came to therapy, they spoke of deep emotional fragility, describing the weight of rejection—both from society and their own family. Their mother, with whom they had been estranged for years, had recently reached out. While this presented an opportunity for reconnection, it also triggered painful emotions, as she still struggled to accept Ameen’s non-binary identity.
Ameen’s therapy sessions at Nafsiyat focused on:
Processing trauma from their past, including the stress of fleeing their home country.
Navigating family estrangement while managing the emotional impact of reconnecting with their mother.
Building emotional resilience to cope with the challenges of refugee life and social isolation.
Fostering self-acceptance in a world that often felt unwelcoming.
Using a trauma-informed, intercultural approach, Nafsiyat’s therapist helped Ameen explore their emotions in a safe, non-judgmental space. Recognising the intersections of race, gender, and refugee status was crucial in making them feel understood.
Finding Strength and Belonging
Over time, Ameen experienced significant shifts in their mental well-being. One of the most pivotal moments in therapy was when they realised that their self-worth was not dependent on their family’s acceptance. This was a powerful breakthrough that gave them the confidence to live more authentically.
Through therapy, Ameen also took active steps to integrate into their new community. They:
-Began engaging with local LGBTQ+ support groups.
-Found a sense of belonging in safe spaces for queer refugees.
-Reported a reduction in anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
-Experienced an improvement in overall well-being, reflected in their SWEMWBS mental health score, which increased from 17 to 26.
While the journey continues, Ameen has developed the tools to navigate life with greater resilience and hope.
Why This Story Matters
Ameen’s experience is a reminder of the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers. Cultural stigma, legal persecution, and the trauma of displacement make seeking support even more vital. At Nafsiyat, we are committed to ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggle.
This LGBTQ+ History Month, we honour the strength and courage of individuals like Ameen, who continue to defy the odds and reclaim their right to exist, heal, and thrive.