The good news is that the great majority of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth are mentally healthy and resilient. The sad news is that recent headlines of several suicides by gay (or presumed to be gay) teenagers has been a tragic reminder that many LGBT youth face family rejection, physical and sexual abuse, constant bullying, and isolation. These highly stressful situations often contribute to depression, exacerbate depression, lead to, or increase, drug and alcohol use, eating disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, and hopelessness - all of which tend to increase suicidal behavior.
There are currently no statistics available for completed suicides ...
Forty percent of LGBTQ teens will attempt suicide. This if four times greater than their straighter counterparts.
Today is the first day back for NYC public schools, as well as being the last day of 5770. Fortunately, 5771 will usher in a year of increased safety for all students. This morning at the LGBT Community Center, Governor Paterson signed the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) , which protects students on the basis of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, race, color, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, weight, and disability.
While this is a huge win for LGBTQ ...
