As Pride month comes to a close, we would like to take a moment to recognize serious challenges faced by the LGBTQ community that are often perpetuated by social stigma, lack of awareness, and punitive legislation. While research on LGBTQ adolescents and adults is growing, it is important to also address the numerous unmet needs and lack of adequate support and accessible resources that affect this group of people on a daily basis.
LGTBQ adolescents and adults are more prone to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This vulnerability has been linked to the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ community such as isolation from peers, family, and supportive groups and being the frequent target of abuse and crime. Furthermore, conservative legislation that restricts and even bans discussions of nontraditional identities continues to discourage valuable support and resources from LGBTQ adolescents and adults. This context often creates an imbalanced distribution of support and leads to increased stigmatization. Feeling an overall lack of community acceptance can lead individuals to perceive life as unworthy and increase their risk for suicidal behavior.
Warnings signs and risk factors of suicide often manifest as:
- Expressed thoughts of hopelessness and/or life being too difficult
- Statements expressing a wish to be dead or no longer here
- Statements of specific plans to end life
- Access to lethal means including firearms and potentially lethal substances
- Increased isolation from social support or disappearing from supportive groups resulting in minimal contact
- History of suicide attempts
- History of abuse, discrimination, bullying, neglect, and/or crime
If you suspect an LGBTQ friend or family member is struggling with suicidal thoughts, act immediately. Be open to honest dialogue about their experience and current struggles. Encourage empowered communication and validate their strengths. Remain knowledgeable of the most current crisis resources for this community including the organizations below:
- The Trevor Project: www.thetrevorproject.org
- 24-hour, toll-free, crisis intervention phone line: 1.866.488.7386
- Peer Listening Line: http://fenwayhealth.org/care/wellness-resources/help-lines
- Anonymous and confidential help line for accessing support from other LGBTQ youth (not specific to suicide): 800.399.PEER
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
- 24 hour, toll-free crisis line: 1.800.273.8255
- LGBT Helpline: http://fenwayhealth.org/care/wellness-resources/help-lines
- Anonymous and confidential help line for accessing support from other LGBTQ people (not specific to suicide): 888.340.4528