October is both Coming Out and Anti-Bullying Month, providing an opportunity to recognize the struggles of those who have faced bullying while embracing their authentic selves. This blog, written by MQ ambassador Amazin LeThi, explores the mental health challenges experienced by those from the LGBTQ community and those who have faced bullying.
October is both Coming Out Month and Anti-Bullying Month, offering a chance to reflect on the challenges faced by those who have endured bullying while embracing their true selves. Among these stories is my own. As a Vietnamese-born LGBTQ advocate, athlete, and former competitive bodybuilder, my journey has been defined by resilience and a deep commitment to mental health advocacy.
From an early age, I experienced intense bullying and racism due to my ethnicity and sexual orientation.
Growing up in a world where I didn’t see anyone like me, I often felt isolated and alone. Coming out as queer was another significant challenge—especially within Asian communities, where discussing sexual orientation remains taboo. Confronting cultural norms, fear, and internalized shame and failure was difficult, and the emotional toll of these battles deeply affected my mental health.
My struggles reached a critical point when I became homeless as a young adult, compounding the mental health challenges I had already faced.
Despite these hardships, I found strength in my Asian and queer identity and have since dedicated my life to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness.
I know firsthand the lasting effects of bullying and discrimination, and I now speak openly about the importance of mental health support for LGBTQ youth who are often left feeling rejected and alone.
Today, as a global LGBTQ advocate, I work to inspire others to stand tall in their truth and fight against bullying in all its forms. My story serves as a reminder that while these struggles can leave lasting scars, with the right mental health support, healing and empowerment are possible. I hope to be a beacon of hope for those facing similar battles, showing that embracing who you are can be the first step to overcoming even the darkest challenges.
Find out more about Amazin LeThi on her website.