Suicide in the LGBT community

In the UK, there is need for research into the growing number of LGBT youth Suicides as this is a vastly high number. The following information contains some facts based on a study of LGBT youth Suicides in the USA, UK and wider World community; this is very alarming to say the least.

Researchers have found that suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth (LGBT) is comparatively higher than among the general population. This is linked to heterocentric cultures and institutionalised homophobia, including the use of LGBT people as a political wedge issue like in the contemporary efforts to halt legalising same-sex marriages. Depression and drug use among LGBT people have both been shown to increase significantly after
new laws that discriminate against gay people are passed.

Numerous studies have shown that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth have a higher rate of suicide attempts than do heterosexual youth. The Suicide Prevention Resource Centre synthesized these studies and estimated that between 30 and 40% of LGB youth, depending on age and sex groups, have attempted suicide. A U.S. government study, titled Report of the Secretary's Task Force on Youth Suicide, published in 1989, found that LGBT youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than other young people. This higher prevalence of suicidal ideation and overall mental health problems among gay teenagers compared to their heterosexual peers has been attributed to minority stress. "More than 34,000 people die by suicide each year," making it "the third leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds with lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth attempting suicide up to four times more than their heterosexual peers." No such study has yet been attempted here in the UK at this level, but the issue of LGBT Youth Suicides is on comparison the same as in the US.

Where can you find help?

Pride London is unable to offer any direct support but if you would like to speak to someone about the issues raised in this section you can find help and support at the following sites:

Schools Out ‐ www.schools-out.org.uk

Stonewall ‐www.stonewall.org.uk

Broken rainbow - www.broken‐rainbow.org.uk

London Friend ‐www.londonfriend.org.uk

Pace ‐ www.pacehealth.org.uk