Esther Ghey
Profile of Esther Ghey: Advocate for Mindfulness and Mental Health
Esther Ghey is a British mother who rose to prominence following the tragic murder of her daughter, Brianna Ghey, a 16-year-old transgender girl, in February 2022. Brianna’s death shocked the UK and sparked widespread discussions about trans rights, youth safety, and mental health. In the aftermath, Esther has become a vocal advocate for mindfulness, mental health awareness, and support for marginalized youth, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
Her Story: From Grief to Advocacy
Esther’s journey has been marked by profound loss, but she has channeled her grief into activism. She has spoken openly about the importance of mindfulness and emotional resilience in coping with trauma. Despite the pain of losing her daughter, Esther has demonstrated a remarkable ability to advocate for others while prioritizing her own mental well-being.
Her public appearances and social media posts often emphasize:
- The power of mindfulness in healing – Esther has shared how practices like meditation, journaling, and self-reflection have helped her process grief.
- The need for mental health support – She advocates for better access to counseling, crisis hotlines, and safe spaces for young people struggling with identity or trauma.
- Community and solidarity – Esther encourages open conversations about grief, mental health, and LGBTQ+ rights, fostering a sense of collective healing.
What She Promotes to Help Others Acquire Mindfulness Skills
Esther Ghey advocates for several key principles to help individuals cultivate mindfulness and emotional resilience:
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Self-Compassion and Acceptance
- She encourages people to acknowledge their emotions without judgment, emphasizing that grief and pain are natural responses to loss.
- Her own journey shows that being kind to oneself is essential in healing.
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Mindfulness Practices
- Meditation & Breathwork – Esther has mentioned using grounding techniques to stay present and manage overwhelming emotions.
- Journaling – Writing down thoughts and feelings can help process trauma and track emotional progress.
- Nature and Movement – She has spoken about the calming effects of spending time outdoors and engaging in gentle physical activity.
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Seeking Support
- Esther stresses the importance of reaching out to trusted friends, family, or professionals when struggling.
- She advocates for LGBTQ+-affirming therapy and safe spaces where young people can express themselves without fear.
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Advocacy and Purpose
- Turning pain into action can be therapeutic. Esther’s work in Brianna’s memory—such as speaking at events, raising awareness, and supporting other families—shows how finding meaning can aid recovery.
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Education and Awareness
- She promotes understanding mental health struggles, especially among young people, and encourages open dialogue to reduce stigma.
Her Message to Others
Esther’s story is a testament to the idea that mindfulness isn’t about avoiding pain but learning to carry it with strength and grace. She often says that while grief never fully disappears, practicing mindfulness can help individuals navigate their emotions without being overwhelmed by them.
For those looking to develop mindfulness skills, her approach combines self-care, community support, and a commitment to personal growth—even in the face of unimaginable loss.
recommendations on specific mindfulness techniques or resources inspired by her advocacy
Mindfulness Techniques & Resources Inspired by Esther Ghey’s Advocacy
Esther Ghey’s approach to mindfulness emphasizes self-compassion, community support, and practical tools for emotional resilience. Below are actionable techniques and resources you can use to cultivate mindfulness, inspired by her journey.
🌿 Mindfulness Techniques to Practice
1. Grounding & Breathwork (For Immediate Calm)
Esther has spoken about using breathing exercises to stay present during overwhelming moments. These techniques help regulate emotions and reduce anxiety.
Quick Exercises:
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Box Breathing (4-4-4-4 Method)
- Inhale for 4 seconds
- Hold for 4 seconds
- Exhale for 4 seconds
- Hold for 4 seconds
- Repeat 3–5 times
- Useful for panic attacks, grief, or stress.
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5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique (For dissociation or overwhelm)
- Name 5 things you see
- 4 things you can touch
- 3 things you hear
- 2 things you smell
- 1 thing you taste
- Helps bring you back to the present moment.
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Loving-Kindness Meditation (Metta)
- Silently repeat phrases like: “May I be safe. May I be healthy. May I live with ease.” Then extend it to others: “May you be safe…”
- Great for self-compassion and reducing self-blame.
📌 Esther’s Connection: She has shared how pausing to breathe helped her during moments of grief. These techniques are simple but powerful for emotional regulation.
2. Journaling for Processing Emotions
Esther has mentioned writing as a way to organize thoughts and track emotional growth. Journaling can help with grief, identity struggles, and self-acceptance.
Journal Prompts Inspired by Her Story:
- “What emotions am I feeling right now, and where do I feel them in my body?”
- “What would I say to a friend going through what I’m experiencing?” (Then write that to yourself.)
- “What small act of self-care can I do today?”
- “How can I honor [a loved one’s name] in a way that feels meaningful?” (For grief processing.)
📌 Esther’s Connection: She has spoken about writing letters to Brianna as a way to process her grief. Journaling can be a private, safe space for raw emotions.
3. Nature & Movement for Healing
Esther has highlighted the calming effects of nature and gentle movement. These practices help ground you in the present and release stored tension.
Ways to Incorporate Nature:
- Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) – Slow, mindful walks in nature, focusing on sensory details (sounds, smells, textures).
- “Sunshine Walks” – Even 10 minutes outside, noticing the warmth on your skin and the air around you.
- Gardening or Plant Care – Tending to plants can be meditative and foster a sense of growth.
Gentle Movement Practices:
- Yoga (Especially Restorative or Yin Yoga) – Focuses on breath and holding poses to release tension.
- Walking Meditation – Walk slowly, feeling each step. Count breaths (e.g., 10 steps = inhale, 10 steps = exhale).
- Dance or Free Movement – Put on music and move intuitively to release emotions.
📌 Esther’s Connection: She has shared how being outside helped her cope with grief. Nature can be a powerful anchor when emotions feel heavy.
4. Mindful Technology Use (Digital Detox)
Esther advocates for protecting mental health in a digital age, especially for LGBTQ+ youth who may face online harassment.
Mindful Tech Habits:
- Set “No-Screen” Times (e.g., first hour after waking, before bed).
- Curate Your Feed – Unfollow accounts that trigger comparison or distress. Follow affirming, educational, or calming content.
- Use Apps for Mindfulness (See resources below).
- Practice “Single-Tasking” – When using devices, focus on one thing at a time (e.g., no multitasking while scrolling).
📌 Esther’s Connection: She has spoken about the pressure young people face online and the importance of digital boundaries.
5. Community & Shared Healing
Esther emphasizes the power of community—whether through support groups, LGBTQ+ spaces, or memorializing loved ones.
Ways to Connect Mindfully:
- Join a Support Group (In-person or online) – Look for grief groups, LGBTQ+ youth groups, or mental health communities.
- Volunteer or Advocate – Channeling energy into helping others can be therapeutic (e.g., LGBTQ+ charities, mental health orgs).
- Create a Memorial Ritual – Light a candle, plant a tree, or write a letter to honor someone you’ve lost.
- Attend LGBTQ+-Affirming Events – Pride marches, book clubs, or discussion groups can foster belonging.
📌 Esther’s Connection: She has turned her grief into advocacy for trans youth, showing how purpose can aid healing.
📚 Recommended Books (Mindfulness, Grief & LGBTQ+ Support)
| Book | Author | Why It’s Relevant |
|---|---|---|
| The Mindful Way Through Grief | Alan D. Wolfelt | A gentle guide to processing loss with mindfulness. |
| It’s OK That You’re Not OK | Megan Devine | Challenges toxic positivity around grief and offers real comfort. |
| The Body Keeps the Score | Bessel van der Kolk | Explores trauma healing through mindfulness, yoga, and body-based therapies. |
| The Four Agreements | Don Miguel Ruiz | Simple but profound principles for self-acceptance and emotional freedom. |
| This Book Is Gay | Juno Dawson | A must-read for LGBTQ+ youth on identity, mental health, and navigating challenges. |
| The Upward Spiral | Alex Korb | Science-backed ways to rewire your brain for happiness and resilience. |
| Briar Rose (Memoir) | Jane Yolen | A fairy tale-inspired story about grief and healing (Esther has cited fairy tales as a comfort). |
📱 Apps for Mindfulness & Mental Health
| App | Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Headspace | Guided meditations, sleep stories, and stress relief. | Free trial, then $12.99/month |
| Calm | Sleep stories, breathing exercises, and daily mindfulness. | Free trial, then $14.99/month |
| Insight Timer | Free meditations (including grief-specific ones) and a global community. | Free (premium features available) |
| Woebot | AI chatbot for CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) techniques. | Free |
| Finch | Self-care pet app that encourages mindfulness and goal-setting. | Free (with ads) |
| Refuge Restrooms | Finds safe, gender-neutral restrooms (useful for LGBTQ+ travelers). | Free |
| Q Chat Space | Online LGBTQ+ teen discussion groups (moderated). | Free |
🆘 Crisis & Support Hotlines
| Organization | What They Offer | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Samaritans (UK) | 24/7 emotional support for anyone in distress. | Call 116 123 (free) or email [email protected] |
| MindOut (LGBTQ+ Mental Health) | Peer support and crisis text line for LGBTQ+ people. | Text “MindOut” to 85258 (UK) |
| The Trevor Project (US) | Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth (24/7). | Call 1-866-488-7386 or text 678-678 |
| Childline (UK) | Free, confidential support for under-19s. | Call 0800 1111 or chat online |
| Trans Lifeline | Peer support for trans people in crisis. | Call US: 877-565-8860 / CA: 877-330-6366 |
| GriefShare | Faith-based grief support groups (but open to all). | Find a local group here |
🌈 LGBTQ+-Affirming Mental Health Resources
| Resource | What It Offers | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Mermaids (UK) | Support for trans and gender-diverse youth and families. | mermaidsuk.org.uk |
| Stonewall (UK) | Resources on LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, and coming out. | stonewall.org.uk |
| GLAAD (US) | Media advocacy and support for LGBTQ+ youth. | glaad.org |
| PFLAG (US/Canada) | Support for LGBTQ+ people and their families. | pflag.org |
| Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline (UK) | Confidential support for LGBTQ+ people. | Call 0300 330 0630 or chat online |
| The Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT) | Supports LGBTQ+ young people at risk of homelessness. | akt.org.uk |
🎧 Podcasts & YouTube Channels for Mindfulness & Healing
| Name | Focus | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| The Happiness Lab (Yale Prof. Laurie Santos) | Science-backed happiness & mindfulness. | Spotify, Apple Podcasts |
| Therapy in a Nutshell | Short, digestible mental health tips. | YouTube |
| The Mindful Minute | Quick mindfulness exercises. | YouTube |
| QueerWOC | Intersectional LGBTQ+ mental health discussions. | Spotify, Apple Podcasts |
| Griefcast | Comedians share their grief stories in a raw, funny way. | BBC Sounds, Spotify |
📝 Esther’s Own Words: Key Takeaways for Mindfulness
If you’re looking to apply Esther’s approach in your own life, here are her core messages distilled:
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“Your feelings are valid—don’t rush the process.”
- Mindfulness isn’t about “fixing” grief or pain; it’s about holding space for it without judgment.
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“Small steps matter.”
- You don’t have to “heal perfectly.” Even 5 minutes of deep breathing or a short walk counts.
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“You’re not alone.”
- Seek community—whether it’s a support group, a friend, or an online space. Esther’s advocacy shows the power of shared healing.
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“Turn pain into purpose.”
- If you’re able, channel your experiences into helping others (e.g., volunteering, creating art, advocating).
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“Be gentle with yourself.”
- Esther has said that self-compassion is the foundation of resilience. Treat yourself as you would a dear friend.
Final Thought: Esther’s Legacy in Mindfulness
Esther’s journey reminds us that mindfulness isn’t about escaping pain but learning to carry it with intention. Whether through breathwork, nature, journaling, or community, her advocacy offers a roadmap for emotional resilience—especially in the face of systemic challenges like transphobia or grief.