RAPID CITY, S.D. — This was the first day for a new health clinic in Rapid City that focuses on LGBT people under the age of 21.
The Iris Clinic part of Community Health was started by Rapid City Doctor Amanda Diehl.
It’s the first clinic here to be geared toward young LGBT people.
“LGBT+ children, adolescents, are 40 percent less likely to have a suicidal attempt if they have one accepting adult,” says Dr. Amanda Diehl. “How hard is it to say I see you, I accept you, I am honored to be a part of your path, let me know how I can help. That’s like really easy.”
Community Health is open regularly, but Iris Clinic is open 1 week a month.
They offer checkups, mental health care, sexual health education, and re-affirm identities for their patients.
Parents of patients can also receive education tools and support.