This month’s Chameleon meeting has the theme “Relationships: Romantic and Platonic,” and there is always so much to discuss on these topics! Relationships are a huge part of being a teen, and being an LGBTQIA+ teen adds layers and challenges that can be different to navigate than those of your straight peers. Additionally, as exciting and new as budding romantic relationships and crushes can be, it’s important to remember to focus on our platonic relationships as well. Friendships are so vital as we learn and change and grow, and navigating those is A Lot (tm) as well sometimes!
Here are some resources for dealing with the good, the bad, and everything in between when it comes to romantic and platonic relationships. Knowing yourself and checking in with yourself to make sure you’re safe and in a healthy relationship is hard to do, and many of these resources are here to help you with that.
Trevor Project: Healthy Relationships
Youth.gov: Characteristics of Healthy & Unhealthy Relationships
Scarleteen: Relationships (includes tips on navigating relationships during pandemic times)
Love is Respect
TeensHealth: Am I in a Healthy Relationship?
Why Friendship is Important
Learning How to Love Through Friendships