June 2025

Written By Gretchen Murchison

🐰🐰 PRIDE 2025

This community has fought and continues to fight a war of acceptance, a war of tolerance and the most relentless bravery. You are the definition of courage, do you know that? – Lady Gaga

The only constant is change...

Pride, Resilience, and the Power of Connection

Every June, as rainbow flags wave and communities gather in celebration, I find myself reflecting on the deep strength, courage, and love that runs through the people I am privileged to work with—veterans and military families, young adults navigating independence, trauma survivors, those grieving the loss of loved ones, individuals making major life changes, and LGBTQIA+ individuals living boldly and authentically.

Each person brings their own story, and yet, there’s a thread that connects them all: resilience. It’s a ribbon woven from hope, courage, love, and the unwavering desire for a brighter, more inclusive future. That connection is what we honor during Pride Month.

But this year, Pride doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The socio-political climate continues to present real, painful challenges—especially for LGBTQIA+ folks, who are seeing their rights questioned and their safety threatened in ways that are exhausting, demoralizing, and too often terrifying. The ripple effects impact not just individuals, but families, caregivers, and entire communities. It’s a time that calls for both reflection and action, for both protection and celebration.

Amidst the noise, I want to highlight the importance of tending to our own wellness—not as a luxury, but as a necessity.

Mental and Physical Health Matter—Especially Now

When we’re under constant stress, the toll shows up everywhere: in our bodies, our sleep, our appetite, our energy, and our ability to be present. Pride Month is a powerful reminder to check in with ourselves and each other. Are we getting rest? Are we moving our bodies in ways that feel good? Are we limiting our exposure to the kinds of messages—on the news, online, or even in our communities—that wear us down instead of lift us up?

Social Connection Is Vital

We heal in connection with others. Whether it’s finding a group that sees you for who you are, connecting with a friend who “gets it,” or showing up for someone else who’s struggling, community matters. Pride is a celebration, yes—but it’s also a call to come together, to build networks of care, to remind ourselves we are not alone.

Inclusion and Belonging Aren’t Just Buzzwords

They are life-sustaining. If you’re someone feeling on the outside right now, I want to say this clearly: You deserve to feel seen, safe, and included. Whether you find that in a queer-affirming therapist’s office, a support group, a book club, or a chosen family, don’t stop looking. Your people are out there. And you are not a burden for needing them.

Small Actions Matter

In a world that can feel overwhelming, change starts small. Turn off the social media account that constantly drains your energy. Go for a walk without your phone. Write a note to a friend. Join a local event. Volunteer. Read something affirming. Say something kind to yourself. You don’t have to do everything—but doing something, even something small, is a way of reclaiming your energy and your voice.

This Pride Month, I’m holding space for grief and joy, for celebration and exhaustion, for beauty and rage—and for the possibility that even in the hardest moments, we can still build something beautiful together.

Let’s keep weaving that ribbon—thread by thread—with strength, courage, love, and hope.

I'm grateful to know you and I thank you for letting me be a part of your journey.  Please let me know if there is anything more I can be doing to support you.

When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid. – Audre Lorde

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I recommend adding these to your contacts in your phone. If you don't need them, you might be able to share them with someone who does.

Gretchen Murchison https://www.sunriselcsw.com
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May 2025