Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender Youth and Suicide

WMU's Suicide Prevention Program does not provide counseling services. If you are thinking about suicide or hurting yourself, or if someone you know is seriously thinking about suicide, please seek help. Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., call Sindecuse Counseling Services at (269) 387-1850. After hours, call (800) 273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention lifeline -  available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and answered locally.

In case of emergency, call 911!

• LBGT youth do not kill themselves because they are gay. Most LGBT youth consider suicide in response to bullying, discrimination, homophobia, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, violence, gender nonconformity, low self-esteem and societal and family rejection.

• When compared to heterosexual males and females, gay men are six times more likely and lesbian females are two times more likely to attempt suicide.

• To date, there is no empirical data regarding the number of completed suicides within the LBGT community.

Risk factors specific to lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender youth

• LBGT youth are at the highest risk for suicide when they come out to family and friends. The rejection or lack of support from family, friends, peers, and society contribute to this heightened risk.

• Psychiatric disorders, primarily depression, anxiety and substance abuse.

• Exposure to discrimination, homophobia, bullying and violence.

• Difficulty associated with conflict in relationships, especially with family, in regards to sexual identity.

• Internal conflict about self-identification, hidden sexual identity, low self-esteem, self-dislike, and self-criticism.

• Religious doctrines condemning suicide may also contribute to suicide among the LBGT community.

Preventing suicide among lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender youth

According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center:

"The steps we take to reduce suicidal behavior among LGBT youth can have the additional benefit of reducing the social stigma and discrimination against LGBT people in our families, schools, and communities. Our ultimate goal is not to merely help lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth survive but to support them to thrive as healthy, productive, and vibrant youth welcomed and empowered in their communities."

Resources for LBGT Youth

• Trevor Space - A safe haven online space for young people seeking support for an identity that falls along the LGBTQ spectrum. (www.trevorspace.org)
• GLBT National Helpline - 1-888-843-4564, this hotline can provide support for anyone coming out, being bullied for sexual orientation, or navigating same-sex relationships. If you are under 21 there is a hotline for youth, 1-800-246-7743.