Suicide is such a painful phenomenon and one that can be really hard to explain and understand. Though there are times when it is impossible to know why a suicide occurs, in many cases people try to explain their reasons. Far too many GLBT teens experience horrible homophobia and bullying at home and at school. Plenty are afraid or unable to come out. And some who have conflicted emotions about being gay, feel that they can't live up to the expectations of the GLBT community. Yet while these can be horrible situations, teens who are going through them can get help and support.
1. Is Teen Suicide a Bigger Risk if You are GLBT?
Image (c) Stéfan
Being GLBT itself is not a risk factor for suicide. But being told that there is something wrong with who you are, and being the victim of bullying, homophobia, harassment, and just plain old nastiness simply because you don't identify as straight can lead a gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or questioning teen to suicidal thoughts. Sadly, in too many cases, those thoughts actually result in a completed suicide... Read more
2. What is Depression and What Can You Do to Feel Better?
Image (c) Marius Dollinger
A lot of people use the word "depressed" to describe feeling bummed out or even disappointed about something. But how can you tell when you are actually depressed and when you are just feeling down? And if you are depressed, what can you to to feel better... Read more
3. Screening Guidelines Help Address Gay Teen Suicide
Image (c) trp0
Recently, more and more people have begun to realize how serious a problem GLBT teen suicide is. Because of this the pediatricians are now advised to screen gay teens in case they are at risk. Of course, it can be hard to screen a teen if that teen isn't out to his or her doctor. That is just one of the many great reasons you should consider opening up to your health care provider, and switching to someone you feel comfortable with if you can't... Read more
4. Gay Teen Suicide Warning Signs
After a attempted or completed suicide, parents and friends often blame themselves for not seeing the signs. Really, this blame is totally unfair. Individuals should never feel like they are responsible for preventing a suicide. However, it is wise for people who know and care about GLBT teens to understand some of the warning signs of suicide, and how to help someone they think might be suicidal... Read more
5. The Trevor Project: Suicide Prevention Info & Support for GLBT Teens
Image (c) The Trevor Project
Long before the rest of the world realized that GLBT teen suicide was a serious issue, the Trevor Project was reaching out to at risk gay teens to help tackle this crisis. Through a website and hotline staffed with trained counselors, the Trevor Project is available around the clock to teens who are thinking of ending it all, or who are just feeling down, or alone... Read more
6. The: It Get's Better Project
Image (c) Dutton Adult
The It Gets Better Project has been around for a little while now promoting supportive messages to teens from those who have been there as a way to help prevent GLBT teen suicide. Made up of a website, videos and even a book, this movement of support for gay teens sends the message that while things might be hard now, they will improve in the future... Read more
7. In Memory of Gay Teen Suicide Victims
Image (c) _Harry Lime_
Recently, there have been a number of suicides by GLBT teens that have made the news. Often these deaths come after a teen has suffered relentless bullying and harassment about their sexual orientation. Here we remember some GLBT teens who took their own lives... Read more
8. Can Suicides Increase the Hatred That Prompted Them?
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