September is suicide prevention awareness month. In the LGBT community, suicide attempt rates and deaths are extremely high. The statistics are staggering and dark, especially within the transgender population. Nearly half of young transgender people have thought about suicide and about one quarter report having made a suicide attempt.
“Sadly, I have heard many people say this is because they are choosing to live this “lifestyle” when in actuality most of the problem is facing the hate, bigotry and harassment from other people regarding their identity or orientation.”
Our family has seen this head on, with our trans son. He has attempted suicide several times and in different ways. It is scary and heartbreaking, and I hate that anyone has to deal with the mere thought of losing a child this way. Sadly, I have heard many people say this is because they are choosing to live this “lifestyle” when in actuality most of the problem is facing the hate, bigotry and harassment from other people regarding their identity or orientation.
When youth or adults are accepted and can live their life as the person they feel they are supposed to be, they begin to thrive. All people deserve to live life to the fullest without fear, and anxiety or judgement. If you know of a teen or adult struggling with these thoughts, please help them to know they are not alone. Listen when they need to talk, or give them one of the resources below. These or many other organizations like them are great places to turn for support.
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/pages/get-help-now#trevorChat
Call (866) 488-7386
www.translifeline.org
US: (877) 565-8860
www.itgetsbetter.org
