Suicide Prevention

September is Suicide Prevention Month. Unfortunately, suicidality is an issue that disproportionately affects LGBTQ people, especially youth and transgender individuals. Nearly half of LGBTQ youth have seriously considered suicide in the past year, with that number being even higher for trans and nonbinary youth and youth of color. As many as 82% of transgender people have considered suicide in their lifetime, with 40% attempting.

This is due to the Minority Stress Model, which explains that members of stigmatized minority groups experience higher levels of stress than the general population, leading to trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use. For LGBTQ people, these stressors can include bullying, violence, discrimination, and familial rejection. In addition, LGBTQ individuals face unique barriers to accessing affirming mental healthcare, including fear of discrimination, lack of health insurance coverage, and traumatic experiences with past providers.

With that in mind, there are some protective factors for LGBTQ people. LGBTQ people are less likely to consider suicide if:

·     They have strong social support, including supportive family, close friends, and other LGBTQ people

·     Most or all people in their life use their chosen names and pronouns

·     They have access to LGBTQ-affirming healthcare (especially trans folks)

·     For youth - their schools have LGBTQ-affirming policies, an inclusive curriculum, or a GSA club

Consequently, creating LGBTQ-inclusive spaces and showing allyship can be legitimately life-saving.

If you would like to be involved in suicide prevention work here in Cortland County, consider joining the SPEAK UP Committee, our local chapter of AFSP, or attending the Greater Ithaca Out of the Darkness Walk on September 10th.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call 988 (National Suicide Hotline). LGBTQ youth can also contact The Trevor Project via call, text, or chat. Both services are free, confidential, and operate 24/7