Study: Support helps deter suicide among gay youth

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that a good support system might be the key to helping deter suicide among gay youth.

The study evaluated risk factors associated with self harm and suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender adolescents between ages 16 and 20.

Support from family and friends often acted as an effective preventive factor against inflicting self-harm and suicide among the population. Adolescents who felt victimized and didn't have a trusted support network were more likely to have suicidal thoughts and inflict harm, the research suggests.

About 94% of LGBT youth have experienced some form of victimization, whether it be name-calling or threats, according to a Northwestern University press release.

The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing the availability of support groups for LGBT youth. In addition, it highlights society's responsibility to increase acceptance and reduce the negative stigma sometimes associated with being gay, bisexual or transgender.

--> This is hardly surprising, but important to talk about in the wake of so many untimely deaths in the LGBT community. More at the Huffington Post.

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