Suicide and Self-Harm
A Stonewall study on suicide rates and para-suicidal behaviour
shows evidence that LGB young people showed a significantly higher rate than
their heterosexual peers of suicidality.
In 2001, in a paper by the American Association of Suicidology, 350 young
LGB people between the ages of 14-21 years, from the US, Canada and New Zealand
were questioned on suicidal thoughts and behaviours as a reaction to their
sexual orientation.
42% had sometimes or often thought of suicide and 33% reported
at least one attempt. Many related it to their sexual orientation. Most of
the attempts followed an awareness of same sex feelings and preceded disclosure
to others.
Sadly the suicide rate among transgender individuals is higher than for the
rest of society, they are also more likely to be the target of physical violence,
to lose their jobs, and to receive discrimination in a variety of forms.
The research and case studies available on this issue are vast and all indicate that LGB young people show a special risk for a range of health and mental health problems. Organisations that are available to help with these matters are:
— www.selfharm.org.uk
— www.samaritans.org.uk
— www.childline.org.uk
There are a range of links to further information and help with all the issues above at the top of this page. We also have a links page for these and other organisations.
