Pride month is a time to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the LGBTQ community, but it’s also a time to reflect on what more we can do to ensure everyone gets the support they need.
It’s no secret that our country’s youth are in a mental health crisis. For LGBTQ youth, this crisis is even worse.
Our partners at Trevor Project have been focusing on suicide prevention efforts for LGBTQ youth since 1998. Their new national survey reveals an upward trend in suicidal thoughts and high rates of anxiety and depression among LGBTQ youth.
We all must come together to foster acceptance and end this mental health crisis. If we are able to provide this help in all K-12 schools, then we will be able to help LGBTQ youth across the country.
There are a lot of concerning mental health statistics for LGBTQ youth.
It’s not because young people don’t want help: According to the Trevor Project, 60% of LGBTQ youth who wanted mental health care in the past year were just not able to get it.
LGBTQ support and resources are crucial for young people and are essential to their mental health. The Trevor Project’s data also shows that queer youth who found their school to be LGBTQ-affirming reported lower rates of attempting suicide.
These statistics say a lot. While young people are struggling, the solution is in our schools. Providing a safe, affirming environment and the mental health supports youth need is critical for their well-being.
It’s okay to not be okay. If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they text HOME to 741741.
Sent via ActionNetwork.org. To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from Inseparable, please click here.
