Research shows that teens who identify as LGBTQ+ are at increased risk of suicide and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Research shows that LGBTQ+ teens consider suicide and make suicide attempts at about four times the national rate for all adolescents. And, a new survey reveals 36 percent of LGBTQ+ young people had suicidal thoughts in the past year while 10 percent attempted suicide.
These numbers shed light on the critical importance of mental health services and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth. Parents, teachers, mentors, and policymakers must help ensure that LGBTQ+ teens receive ongoing support and access to mental healthcare resources.
What You’ll Learn
- Why are LGBTQ+ teens suicide risks higher than their heterosexual, cisgender peers?
- What challenges to LGBTQ+ adolescents face in school and in society?
- How can parents help their LGBTQ+ teen?
- How can PrairieCare support LBGTQ+ teens?
Quick Read
Research indicates that LGBTQ+ teens face significantly higher risks of suicide and mental health issues compared to their heterosexual peers. They are four times more likely to consider or attempt suicide, with factors such as stigma, family rejection, and bullying contributing to their struggles. A recent survey revealed that 36 percent of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year, while 10 percent attempted it. Support from family and acceptance in their communities can greatly improve their mental health outcomes.
The challenges LGBTQ+ teens encounter extend beyond personal struggles; they often face bullying, violence, and discrimination, which exacerbate feelings of isolation. Many express a desire for mental health care, yet a significant portion cannot access it. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in providing support and fostering open communication. By respecting their identities and creating a safe environment, families can help reduce the risk of suicide and promote well-being among LGBTQ+ youth.
Statistic on Mental Health and Suicide Among LGBTQ+ Youth
LGBTQ+ teen suicide rates and LGBTQ+ mental health statistics reflect the societal and relationship challenges that these young people face. Newport is proud to partner with the Trevor Project, the nation’s foremost LGBTQ+ advocacy and research organization.
Their 2025 National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People, which captured the experiences of more than 16,000 LBGTQ+ young people ages 13–24, reveals alarming statistics on suicidal thoughts and attempts: 36 percent of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year and 10 percent attempted suicide.
Other key findings from the survey include:
- Over half of LGBTQ+ young people experienced bullying
- 21 percent have been physically threatened or harmed due to their sexual orientation or gender identity
- 23 percent of transgender and nonbinary young people say they had been physically threatened or harmed due to their gender identity.
- 62 percent of LGBTQ young people experienced symptoms of anxiety.
- 47 percent of LGBTQ+ young people experienced symptoms of depression.
- 84 percent of those surveyed wanted mental heatlhcare
- 44 percent of young people who wanted mental healthcare were unable to get it
- Young people living in rural areas were more likely to report symptoms of anxiety or depression, as well as consider or attempt suicide, compared to those living in other parts of the country.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), LGBTQ+ teens are six times more likely to experience symptoms of depression than the general population. Research shows that low family satisfaction, cyberbullying victimization, and unmet medical needs contributed to their higher rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and suicidal behavior.
LGBTQ+ Mental Health in Minnesota
In Minnesota, we are seeing similar statistics locally, indicating a great need for mental health support for LGBTQ+ people throughout the state. In the Minnesota Student Survey, high school students who identify as LGBTQ+ showed a 28 percent higher rate of emotional distress when compared to cisgender, homosexual students.
According to the Voices of Health Survey by Rainbow Health, LGBTQ+ Minnesotans are experiencing high rates of mental distress because of COVID-19, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, financial stress, or a combination of factors. Six out of seven respondents were experiencing moderate to severe mental health distress at the time of the survey. Meanwhile, only 15 percent said they had minimal to no mental health challenges. Rainbow Health also found similar rates of moderate to severe mental distress for people who identified as white (84 percent) and BIPOC (86 percent).
Moreover, in the Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health (Minnesota), 78% percent of youth in Minnesota say the community where they live is accepting of LGBTQ+ people, higher than in 2022. The survey found that trusting in who they know who they are, standing up for them, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights as the best way to show support and acceptance.
Why Do LGBTQ Youth Have Higher Rates of Mental Health Conditions and Suicide Risk?
It’s important to understand that a young adult’s sexuality and mental health are not directly related. LGBTQ+ youth’s mental health suffers not because of their sexual orientation or gender identity in itself. Instead, they face higher risk due to being mistreated and stigmatized in society, as well as by family.
Between 20 and 45 percent of the homeless youth in the United States identify as LGBTQ+, and most have left home or been kicked out due to family rejection. And nearly 1 in 4 LGBTQ+ young people report that they have been physically threatened or harmed in the past year due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, according to the Trevor Project survey. Moreover, the survey found 90 percent of LGBTQ+ young people said their well-being was negatively impacted due to politics, with over half saying they were negatively impacted by politics a lot.
How Laws and Policies Impact LGBTQ+ Mental Health
According to the Trevor Project survey, 90 percent of young people surveyed are stressed or anxious about recent LGBTQ+-related laws and policies and 79 percent said they made them feel unsafe. Moreover, one-third of LGBTQ+ young people, including 38 percent of transgender and nonbinary young people, say their family has considered moving to a different state
Schools and government policies can make a difference for LGBTQ+ youth. Youth living in states with anti-bullying laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity report less homophobic victimization and harassment. In addition, schools with Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) clubs provide a more supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth.
LGBTQ Substance Abuse Statistics
Not surprisingly, these LGBTQ+ youth mental health statistics are reflected in rates of substance use among LGBTQ+ young adults. Studies show that this demographic, particularly women, are at greater risk for alcohol and substance use disorders due to the intensified stressors they face.
Recent research using data from the CDC and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shows that rates of alcohol use among LGBTQ+ young adults (ages 18–25) are 18 percent higher than their peers. Rates of marijuana use are 59 percent higher. Moreover, lifetime usage of harder drugs—including cocaine, meth, ecstasy, and heroin—is two to three times higher among LGBTQ+ young adults.
Most significantly, higher rates of substance abuse in this population are directly associated with higher LGBTQ+ suicide rates. Regular prescription drug misuse was associated with nearly three times greater odds of attempting suicide. Regular alcohol use was associated with almost 50 percent higher likelihood of attempting suicide. And LGBTQ+ youth under age 21 who regularly used marijuana were nearly twice as likely (1.67 times) to attempt suicide.
Resources to Support Mental Health in LGBTQ Youth
These four resources are essential in supporting the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ young adults.
Support from family
Parental acceptance and affirmation are the most important predictors of LGBTQ+ mental health. When they are deprived of that acceptance, young adults suffer from the tragic consequences of relational trauma. One study found that LGBTQ+ young adults who experienced high levels of family rejection during adolescence were nearly six times as likely to be depressed and three times more likely to use illegal drugs. Trevor Project research shows that LGBTQ+ youth who feel high social support from family attempt suicide at less than half the rate of those who felt low or moderate social support.
Self-compassion
It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly effective. Research shows that self-compassion and self-empowerment are essential resources for personal happiness—and can even help overcome a lack of parental acceptance. Therefore, Mindfulness and positive affirmation practices that build empathy and acceptance for oneself are powerful resources for LGBTQ+ youth’s mental health.
Supportive communities
Connection is vital for LGBTQ+ young adults. A review of 34 studies on LGBTQ+ youth mental health found that community groups and GSAs (Gay-Straight Alliance groups) provided an all-important “sense of solidarity and friendship in the face of isolation.” Feeling connected with the LGBTQ+ community can even protect young people from the negative outcomes of prejudice, one study found. In addition, caring adults and positive peer connections also serve as invaluable resources.
Self-care
Building healthy habits and routines can take effort, but once these practices are established, they will continue supporting young adults throughout life. Self-care includes attending to physical health and mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational well-being—whether that means making a gratitude list or savoring the beauty of the ocean or a gorgeous sunset. It can also include seeking the support of a mental healthcare professional if you’re suffering from anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts rather than trying to tough it out on your own.
Despite their challenges, developing and drawing on these resources can help LGBTQ+ young adults fully embrace who they are and find a path forward to flourishing. Our helpful tips for parents and supportive figures can also help you learn how to support transgender youth.
Culturally Competent and Gender-Responsive Treatment at PrairieCare
We understand the specific challenges that transgender and gender-nonconforming young people navigate as they come of age. Our treatment considers the unique needs of LGBTQ+ youth and provides them with tools for navigating the world, building self-worth, and forming strong relationships with peers, mentors, and their community.
Our clinical experts and care staff have expertise and experience in addressing the mental health challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face. As a division of Newport Healthcare, PrairieCare partners with the Trevor Project, the nation’s foremost LGBTQ+ advocacy and research organization.
Call our team at 952-826-8475 to learn more about services, access a mental health screening, and start the admissions process. You can also fill out a request form, and within one business day, a specialist from our team will contact you or your loved one to complete a screening.
