Li (they/them)
Li is a non-binary, queer Asian student looking for healthcare that feels safe, affirming, and respectful. They value privacy and want to be understood without having to explain or defend their identity.
Overview
Li navigates healthcare carefully, prioritising services that demonstrate inclusivity and respect from the outset. Past experiences with misgendering and subtle stigma mean they are highly attentive to signals of safety, representation, and confidentiality. Feeling emotionally secure is just as important as receiving the right medical support.
How You Seek Help
- Researches services thoroughly before reaching out
- Looks for visible LGBTQIA+ affirming signals
- Prefers providers who communicate clearly and respectfully
What Gets in the Way
- Fear of being misgendered or misunderstood
- Previous negative or dismissive experiences
- Lack of clear signals around inclusivity and privacy
Culture & Reality
Family, Face & Cultural Expectations
Li grew up in a cultural environment where queerness was rarely discussed openly. Maintaining harmony and avoiding conflict sometimes means keeping parts of their identity private, especially with family.
Cost Anxiety & Financial Trade-offs
Li carefully weighs cost against emotional safety. They may delay care if affirming options feel financially inaccessible.
OSHC & System Navigation
OSHC feels complex and impersonal. Li often struggles to understand what services are covered and whether providers will be respectful.
Situations
Sexual Health & Intimacy
Seeks inclusive sexual health care that does not assume gender or orientation. Avoids services that rely on heteronormative language.
Mental Health & Stress
Experiences ongoing stress related to identity safety and emotional labour. Values therapists with lived or demonstrated LGBTQIA+ competence.
Urgent vs Non-Urgent Care
Hesitant to seek urgent care unless absolutely necessary due to fear of discrimination.
Safety, Crisis Signals & Support
In crisis, anonymity and confidentiality are critical. Li benefits from discreet crisis lines and text-based support options.
What Helps
What Actually Helps
- Clear statements of inclusivity
- Providers who ask, not assume
- Language that affirms identity
Your Support Pathway
- Affirming provider
- Clear information
- Respectful interaction
- Trust
- Ongoing care