LGBQ Teens’ Risk of Suicide Far Greater Than Straight Peers

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New research says that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning teens were far more likely than their heterosexual peers to think about, plan, attempt, and die by suicide. Maskot/Getty Images
  • A new study found that LGBQ adolescents reported having a higher risk of suicidal ideation over their lifetime compared to their heterosexual peers.
  • The study also found that 12 percent of LGBQ young people had a higher risk of suicide attempts compared to 5.4 percent of heterosexual teens.
  • The researchers found that suicidal thought, planning, suicide, and suicide attempts were more likely to be reported by LGBQ young people at younger ages. Those 15 years and younger showed riskier suicidal behaviors than older youth.

New research takes a look at a mental health crisis that’s facing American young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or questioning (LGBQ).

LGBQ youth report experiencing earlier onset of suicidality. This includes a faster progression from suicidal ideation to planning than heterosexual (straight) peers.

What do these findings say about support systems in place for LGBQ youth, and what more needs to be done to give these young people the help they need?

Source: healthline