Transgendered youth and adults are at serious risk for issues that others in the general population may not experience. Top among them is suicide or self-harm. In this article, we will take a look at transgender suicide statistics. We will also posit possible causes for this trend. By reading this article, we hope that you will learn how to identify and prevent this issue. The LGTBQ community (and members of that community) seriously need the support of others. We will shed light on how you can become part of the solution, not part of the problem.
What Statistics Tell Us
1. Shockingly, just over 40% of transgender identifying people have attempted suicide at least once in their lives.
2. The number hovers around half for transgender teens.
3. Those who had lost their homes because of their gender identity fared even worse: around 7 of ten were likely to attempt suicide.
4. Transgender people who were open about their gender identity were also at higher risk. As were those that had been discriminated against by medical professionals.
5. When surveying transgender populations with higher education, the rate was shown to decrease significantly.
6. The risk for any transgendered person to attempt suicide at least once in their lives was much higher than the average person.
Possible Causes
What is causing this epidemic? There are lots of theories. It seems that, mostly, it is the lack of acceptance and rejection that many transgendered people experience and face. We simply live in a society where having a clearly defined gender (as defined by society) is much more acceptable. Clearly, lack of community, as well as lack of support from family members and others also plays a role. Other studies also link trends like increased drug use, as well as depression, to this issue in the LGTBQ community. Statistics may be so high amongst youth because of their perceived rejection of peers. No matter the possible cause, this trend needs to stop. And you can help.
Identifying Depression
Depression often accompanies suicide or suicidal thoughts. Symptoms for depression often include:
1. Feelings of despair that patients feel helpless to change.
2. Issues sleeping, including sleeping too little or sleeping too much.
3. Eating too much or eating too little.
4. Losing interest in passions or hobbies.
5. Feeling tired and lacking energy.
6. Feelings of guilt.
7. Not being able to recall things as you once did. Inability to be decisive.
8. Seeming irritable, anxious, or restless.
9. Suffering from aches and pains that simply do not seem to ever go away. Despite various treatments for them, they still seem to persist. These aches may include pain, stomach issues, cramping, or headaches.
10. Dwelling on thoughts or suicide or attempting suicide.
11. Self-harm.
Other Risks in the LGTBQ Community
As mentioned above, there are other risks for members of the LGTBQ community. Both drug use and depression seem to be more prevalent among those who self-identify themselves as part of this community. One of the biggest risks, however, is living in a society where being an LGTBQ person is seen as abnormal, strange, or even wrong. Not only is this sort of discrimination normal against LGTBQ people, but it seems to be built into many of our systems and policies. More people must stand with members of the LGTBQ community to make a social change, not just an individual change.
Preventing This Issue
The key to preventing this issue is to be part of the solution. If a friend or loved one is transgendered, try your best to be supportive of them. Try to create an environment at your school, workplace, or intuition that is accepting and open minded. Be sure that any discrimination or harassment of transgendered people is reported to the proper authorities. Staff in places like schools have a very important role to play in being accepting and understanding. In many areas, policies that try to prevent this sort of discriminatory behavior are already in place. If someone tells you they are transgendered, be sure to listen to them. Do not react negatively, even if you do not understand their choice. Many who are not transgendered, or part of the LGTBQ community choose to join clubs and networks like Gay-Straight Alliances to help show support.
Getting the Support You Need
Please remember that if you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, or having suicidal thoughts, to contact a medical professional immediately. Doing so could be the difference between life and death. In many cases, helplines are established that you can all, anytime, night or day, to talk to counselors. Most of these numbers are toll-free. If you are a member of the LGTBQ community that feels isolated, try to seek out communities or support systems (like GSA) in your local area. Let others know how you feel. Chances are, they are more than willing to listen.