Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, queer and other sexuality, gender and bodily diverse (LGBTIQ+) people are identified as a priority population for suicide prevention in Australia, with research showing LGBTIQ+ people are disproportionately impacted by suicide when compared with the general population.
LGBTIQ+ people are not at greater risk of suicide because of their sexuality, gender identity or intersex characteristics in and of themselves. Instead, these risks are due to psychological distress resulting from experiences of discrimination, prejudice, abuse and exclusion in relation to their identity or experiences.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) have released findings from the 2020-2022 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, which has captured mental health and wellbeing information for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ+) people in Australia. The study includes information on states of distress, mental health concerns and suicidal behaviours, as well as service use by LGBTQ+ people for mental health concerns.
The results indicate that prevention strategy must consider and address the unique stressors known for LGBTQ+ populations to address the disproportionate experiences of mental health concerns and distress. Prevention strategies that are informed and led by LGBTQ+ people and communities with lived and living experience can inform and identify the best and targeted ways in which we can achieve this.
Read a detailed summary of the results.
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