Mental Health Challenges in LGBTQ+ youth

This June, as we remember the Stonewall riots of 1969 and recognize the impact of the LGBTQ+ community around the world, we celebrate Pride.  In doing so, we must acknowledge the substantial mental health challenges faced by our LGBTQ+ youth. The Trevor Project recently released new research that presents alarming statistics (Healthline). 

“Out of the nearly 35,000 LGBTQ youth who were surveyed, 42 percent of respondents between the ages of 13 and 24 had seriously considered attempting suicide within the past 12 months, with more than half identifying as trans or nonbinary youth.”  Especially frightening is that the number is even higher for youth between the ages of 13 and 17;  when young people are still mentally, socially, and physically adolescent. 

To further compound the problem, there simply are not enough mental health providers trained to treat adolescents.  According to Healthline, “there are on average only 9.75 child psychiatrists per 100,000 children in the United States.”

How can we, as a society, come together and support our LGBTQ+ youth?  For so many young members of the LGBTQ+ community, who often face bullying and harassment, now is the time to speak up against prejudice. 

Be a role model for kindness and inclusion.  

Lift their voices and allow the LGBTQ+ voices to be heard.  

Allow our youth to be authentic in this world.  

If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide and in need of help, the Trevor Project has trained counselors available 24/7: call  866-488-7386 or go to Thetrevorproject.org

Other Resources: 

National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255.

Clackamas County Crisis Hotline at 503-655-8585.

At Repose, we celebrate diversity and respect differences in gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, race, ethnicity, national origin, disability, class, and age.