While we strive to make BateWorld a positive oasis for men online, we know there are serious, real world concerns shared by many of us. It can be challenging to find resources or reliable information about staying safe online and off. We’re pleased to share a selection of information about mental health, ongoing health crises, and developing situations that might impact bators all over the world.
Staying safe online
Privacy and security information you can use right now.
There’s lots you can do without interrupting your bator flow to keep yourself safer online:
How to Disable Ad ID Tracking on iOS and Android, and Why You Should Do It Now (via EFF.org)
The ad identifier – aka “IDFA” on iOS, or “AAID” on Android – is the key that enables most third-party tracking on mobile devices. Disabling it will make it substantially harder for advertisers and data brokers to track and profile you, and will limit the amount of your personal information up for sale.
What is end-to-end encryption and how does it work? (via proton.me)
End-to-end encryption is the most secure way to communicate privately and securely online. By encrypting messages at both ends of a conversation, end-to-end encryption prevents anyone in the middle from reading private communications.
Do you need a VPN at home? Here are 5 reasons you might. (via Mozilla)
You might have heard of VPNs — virtual private networks — at some point, and chalked them up to something only “super techy” people or hackers would ever use. At this point in the evolution of online life, however, VPNs have become more mainstream, and anyone may have good reasons to use one.
Finding help when you need it
Mental health and suicide prevention information and immediate counseling.
Even in a community as thick as BateWorld, we can sometimes feel like islands.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. If you are in the US, simply dial 988 on your phone.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Anxiety disorders and depression are treatable. Many people experience meaningful symptom relief and improvement in their quality of life with professional care. If people have more than one anxiety disorder or if they suffer from other co-existing conditions, treatment may take longer. An experienced provider will conduct a comprehensive assessment before discussing an individualized treatment plan.
Our trained counselors understand the challenges LGBTQ young people face. If you are thinking about harming yourself — get immediate support. Connect to a crisis counselor 24/7, 365 days a year, from anywhere in the U.S. It is 100% confidential, and 100% free.
CheckPoint Global Mental Health Resources Directory
CheckPoint provides mental health resources for gamers and the gaming community. Our missions are to raise awareness for mental health issues, reduce stigma, and improve wellbeing in our community.
International Suicide Prevention Help
WikiPedia maintains a comprehensive listing of international suicide prevention crisis lines, for bators outside the United States.
Prevention and treatment
Find information and tools to protect yourself from preventable diseases and where to seek treatment.
GMHC Hotline
The GMHC Hotline provides a safe space to discuss a wide range of concerns. GMHC staff provide emotional support with compassion and without judgment. We provide information about topics such as HIV/AIDS, STDs, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), sexual health, and resources such as testing, healthcare, benefits, and counseling.
Monkeypox Information (via DAP health)
Founded in 1984 by a group of community volunteers in the face of the AIDS crisis, DAP Health has been the Coachella Valley’s primary not-for-profit resource for those living with, affected by, or at-risk for HIV or AIDS.
Centers for Disease Control US Resources on Monkeypox
There is currently no centralized listing of monkeypox vaccination centers. We recommend searching for “monkeypox vaccine” and your area, to find options local to you.
World Health Organization International Resources on Monkeypox
WHO is collaborating with health authorities to prevent further spread of the disease. We are issuing guidance to help countries on surveillance, laboratory work, clinical care, infection prevention and control, as well as risk communication and community engagement to inform communities at risk and the broader general public about monkeypox and how to keep safe.
Vaccines.gov
If you live in the US, find a vaccination resource by searching your current ZIP code.
Know a resource you think should be included? We’re always looking for up to date and useful information about any of the topics listed here. Reach out and let us know.
