Why LGBTQ People Are More At Risk Of Suicide (And What You Can Do To Help)

By MiNDFOOD

Why LGBTQ People Are More At Risk Of Suicide (And What You Can Do To Help)
During Pride Month, it’s a good time to learn how to be an ally to at-risk youth.

June is Pride Month in many parts of the world. It’s a time to celebrate and commemorate the LGBTQIA+ community, their history, and their ongoing struggle for equality. Street parades, festivals and other events foster inclusivity and celebrate the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities.

Today, one in five people under 25 identifies as gender- or sexually diverse. That’s a large section of the youth population.

However, despite growing acceptance, LGBTQIA+ people are twice as likely to experience a mental health disorder than the heterosexual population. Nearly half (48%) have seriously considered suicide – more than three times the rate of their heterosexual peers.

Rejection can lead to lifelong damage

These figures are confronting. But what’s behind the relatively poor mental health of the LGBTQIA+ population?

Experts say that these mental health challenges are linked to rejection, isolation and the challenges of coming out. With one in two LGBTQIA+ young people experiencing parental rejection when they speak openly about their sexuality/gender, too many are facing disapproval, isolation, and shame. And that emotional toll can last a lifetime.

Clinical Psychologist, Dr Michelle Olaithe, from Online Psychologists Australia says the pressure to conform to societal norms around gender and sexuality can result in young people being excluded, emotionally neglected, and even expelled from their family homes.
At work, they often face inappropriate comments, invasive questions, and sexual harassment based on their identity.

“The effects of these experiences are devastating – not just in the moment, but for long-term mental health and resilience,” she says. “The impacts of this experience can continue to be damaging for the rest of their lives if they do not get support.”

A guide to supporting friends and family

For those wishing to offer support to LGBTQIA+ friends and family, it’s not always simple to know how to help. Online Psychologists Australia has created a new online resource, From Surprise to Support: A Psychologist’s Guide to Getting It Right When Someone Comes Out.

Designed for parents, teachers, and loved ones, this compassionate, psychologist-developed resource offers clear, thoughtful guidance on what to say (and what not to), how to respond with empathy, and how to create a safe, affirming environment in the moments that matter most.

First reactions matter deeply

CEO of Online Psychologists Australia, Sarah Richardson, says the guide is about helping Australians become safe people for their LGBTQIA+ friends, colleagues and family members. “When someone comes out to you, they’re not just sharing their truth – they’re asking to be met with acceptance. That first reaction matters deeply. We created this resource for the betterment of the lives of LGBTQIA+ Australians as well as for their loved ones, with the hope of strengthening their relationships,” says Richardson.

“When people are empowered to embrace their LGBTQIA+ identity, it can lead to greater confidence, improved relationships, and increased self-acceptance positively impacting all Australians. That’s why we’re providing the tools to respond in a way that genuinely supports the person figuring out their identity, protecting their wellbeing in the process.”

With the right words and actions, you could save a young person’s life.

To access the online support guide, visit From surprise to support: A psychologist’s guide to getting it right when someone comes out

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