Please scroll to the bottom of this page for many links to great resources.
Teen’s parents: After suicide, he’s still being bullied
At school dance after his wake, they allege, chants of ‘We’re glad you’re dead’
Rest in Peace Jamey and Know You Were Loved
Numerous studies have shown that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth have a higher rate of suicide attempts than do heterosexual youth. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center synthesized these studies and estimated that between 30 and 40% of LGB youth, depending on age and sex groups, have attempted suicide. A U.S. government study, titled Report of the Secretary's Task Force on Youth Suicide, published in 1989, found that LGBT youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than other young people. This higher prevalence of suicidal ideation and overall mental health problems among gay teenagers compared to their heterosexual peers has been attributed to Minority Stress. "More than 34,000 people die by suicide each year," making it "the third leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds with lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth attempting suicide up to four times more than their heterosexual peers."
It is important to note, however, that it is impossible to know the exact suicide rate of LGBT youth because sexuality and gender minorities are often hidden and even unknown, particularly in this age group. Further research is currently being done to explain the prevalence of suicide among LGBT youths.
In terms of school climate, "approximately 25 percent of lesbian, gay and bisexual students and university employees have been harassed due to their sexual orientation, as well as a third of those who identify as transgender, according to the study and reported by the Chronicle of Higher Education."
THE PLEDGE: Everyone deserves to be respected for who they are. I pledge to spread this message to my friends, family and neighbors. I'll speak up against hate and intolerance whenever I see it, at school and at work. I'll provide hope for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and other bullied teens by letting them know that "It Gets Better."
Oct. 3, 2010 - Fifth Gay Teen Suicide in Three Weeks Sparks Debate
SEXUAL ORIENTATION
What is Sexual Orientation? The Simple Facts.
Sexual orientation refers to the direction of a person's romantic and sexual attractions. There are many common sexual orientations.
•Straight (heterosexual) people are primarily attracted to someone of the opposite gender. For example women who are attracted to men.
•Lesbians (gay women) are women attracted to other women.
•Gay men or homosexuals are men attracted to other men.
•Bisexual people can be attracted to someone of the same gender or someone of a different gender.
•Asexuals are not romantically or sexually attracted to other people, though they may still enjoy close and intimate relationships.
Many people believe that sexuality is fluid and can change over a life time. It is common to feel as if you don't fit into any of the above categories and many people choose not to define their sexual orientation. Young people often question their sexual orientation.
EXCELLENT Article written by David Dewey back in 1996
Click here for an online Gay and Lesbian Support Group for Teens
Gay Teen Suicide: Trying to understand some of the Real Causes
Article from the New York Times
Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network