LGBTQ+

Know you are not alone: LGBTQ+ people around the world have been through the same struggle. Check out the stories of hope and recovery at the bottom of the page to see how they cope.

Build your support network: Find allies in your life who will help keep you safe and who you can lean on if you feel depressed or suicidal.

Talk to someone: Silence isn’t strength. Don’t keep suicidal feelings to yourself. Lean on your support network, find a therapist or a support group, or get in touch with the Lifeline.

Make a safety plan: Have a step-by-step plan ready for if/when you feel depressed, suicidal, or in crisis, so you can start at step one and continue through the steps until you feel safe.

Be an ally: If you’re straight, publicly show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. If you’re LGBTQ+, affirm your identity and offer support to loved ones.

Know the facts: Over 80% of LGBTQ+ youth have been assaulted or threatened, and every instance of victimization in an LGBTQ+ person’s life more than doubles the likelihood of self-harming.

Ask and listen: Be an active part of your LGBTQ+ loved ones’ support systems and check in with them often. If they show any warning signs for suicide, be direct. Tell them it’s OK to talk about suicidal feelings. Practice active listening techniques and let them talk without judgment.

Get them help and take care of yourself: Don’t be afraid to get your loved one the help they might need. The Lifeline is always here to talk or chat, both for crisis intervention and to support allies.

Strong family bonds, safe schools and support from caring adults can all protect LGBTQ youth from depression and suicidality (Committee on Adolescence 2013).

Family and community support: For transgender children and youth, family and community support makes all the difference. A recent study found that transgender children whose families affirmed their gender identity were as psychologically healthy as their non- transgender peers (Olson 2016).