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Shocking New Report Shows LGBTQIA+ Youth In The USA Are In Crisis

By Marvin Valdez

Posted on May 8, 2024

(Ben Gingell/AdobeStock)

The Trevor Project’s 2023 survey reveals a mental health crisis among LGBTQIA+ youth in the US. The survey, which included nearly 18,000 people aged 13 to 24, found that 12% of LGBTQIA+ youth tried to take their own lives in the past year. That’s about 1 in 8 young people in the community.

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Transgender and Nonbinary Youth Face Higher Risk

The survey results were even worse for transgender and nonbinary youth: 46% of them reported having suicidal thoughts in the past year. This indicates these individuals’ unique challenges and suggests the discrimination the encounter finding acceptance and support.

Despite the urgent need for mental health support, the survey found that half of the LGBTQIA+ youth who sought help couldn’t get it. This lack of access to important resources can have serious consequences, leaving vulnerable young people without the care they need.

The Trevor Project’s survey found a strong connection between suicidal tendencies and experiences of anti-LGBTQIA+ victimisation, like bullying and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Those who reported being bullied had much higher rates of suicide attempts in the past year. 90% of respondents also said that recent political events had negatively affected their well-being.

A Call to Action for Adults and Allies

Dr Ronita Nath, Vice President of Research at The Trevor Project, stressed the importance of creating inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ youth and giving them the support they need to be their true selves. Adults and allies have a key role in preventing suicide by promoting acceptance and understanding and working to stop victimising behaviours.

Remembering Leelah Alcorn

Leelah Alcorn, a 17-year-old transgender girl from Ohio, took her own life in 2014. Her tragic story shows the challenges LGBTQIA+ youth face. Leelah experienced rejection and misunderstanding from her family and community and was forced into conversion therapy. In her suicide note, she urged society to learn about transgender issues and to treat transgender people with love and respect. Her story highlights how crucial it is to create supportive environments for LGBTQIA+ youth and give them the resources they need to thrive.