Prison Break actor Wentworth Miller's message for LGBTQ youths: 'Celebrate you for who you are'

Wentworth Miller, who came out as gay in 2013 in order to protest against Russia's anti-LGBT law, has a motivational message for LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer) youths. This featured in the cover story of the UK-based gay magazine Attitude's 2016 Awards Issue, where he opened up about his struggle with depression and social stigma due to his sexual orientation.

However, the British-born American actor wants young people to feel proud of who they are. "I would say what others have said: it gets better. One day, you'll find your tribe. You just have to trust that people are out there waiting to love you and celebrate you for who you are," he told the magazine.

The actor has previously revealed his struggle with suicidal thoughts due to internet bullying. "In 2010, semi-retired from acting, I was keeping a low-profile for a number of reasons. First and foremost, I was suicidal," he wrote in an emotional Facebook post in March this year to answer fat shaming bullies.

"Ashamed and in pain, I considered myself damaged goods. And the voices in my head urged me down the path to self-destruction. Not for the first time. I've struggled with depression since childhood. It's a battle that's cost me time, opportunities, relationships, and a thousand sleepless nights," he wrote narrating his experience during his battle with depression.

Hence, Miller has urged youths not to slip into despair and rather move to a positive way of life: "In the meantime, the reality is you might have to be your own tribe. You might have to be your own best friend. That's not something they're going to teach you in school. So start the work of loving yourself."

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, please contact a free support service at Mind.org.uk or call 0300 123 3393. Call charges apply.