Survey Reveals Alarming Rates of Suicide Attempts Among LGBTQ Youth in 2023

A recent nationwide survey conducted by the Trevor Project, a leading organization dedicated to preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth, has unearthed concerning statistics regarding the mental well-being of young individuals in the United States.

The survey, based on responses from 18,000 individuals aged 13 to 24, revealed that over 10% of young people who identify as LGBTQ+ attempted suicide in 2023. Even more distressing is the fact that more than a third, precisely 39%, seriously contemplated suicide in the past year. The figures were notably higher for transgender and nonbinary youth, with 46% reporting serious consideration of suicide.

Unmet Mental Health Needs

Despite the prevalence of these distressing thoughts, the survey highlighted that nearly 50% of LGBTQ+ youth in need of mental health care were unable to access it.

The survey also established a strong association between "anti-LGBTQ+ victimization," recent political developments, and the heightened risk of suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. Individuals who experienced bullying related to their sexual or gender identity were found to have significantly higher rates of attempted suicide. Moreover, a staggering 90% of respondents reported that their well-being was negatively impacted by recent political events.

Call for Supportive Environments

Dr. Ronita Nath, the Vice President of Research at the Trevor Project, emphasized that while the survey shed light on the prevalent risk factors for suicide, many of these factors are preventable. Dr. Nath stressed the need for adults and allies to create more affirming environments for LGBTQ+ young people and provide better support for their well-being.

The survey also outlined the importance of supportive environments, noting that LGBTQ+ individuals who lived in accepting communities had significantly lower suicide attempt rates compared to those in unaccepting areas. Additionally, transgender and nonbinary individuals who had access to affirming experiences, such as the use of preferred pronouns and gender-affirming clothing and facilities, exhibited lower rates of suicide attempts.