A recent study has shown that while depressive feelings among LGBTQ+ youth and those with disabilities have decreased compared to previous years, these groups are still at a higher risk for mental health issues than their peers. One in three LGBTQ+ students were contemplating suicide in 2023, and were twice as likely as their peers to report depressive feelings.
Ken Shulman, the executive director of Lambert House, a community center for LGBTQ+ youth in Seattle, stated that the study’s findings align with what their organization sees in practice. Lambert House provides various forms of social support, such as counseling and housing, for LGBTQ+ youth in the area.
Shulman mentioned that many LGBTQ+ youth in schools are still afraid to be open about their identities due to concerns about harassment from peers or negative reactions from their parents. The study also found that feelings of depression were significantly higher among female participants, LGBTQ+ youth, and students with disabilities.
Despite improvements in mental health support for LGBTQ+ students, they continue to face higher rates of depressive feelings and suicidal ideation, especially in light of the current political climate. Shulman highlighted the impact of legislative actions that aim to limit the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, stating that youth are acutely aware of these threats to their freedoms and futures.
