If you’re a regular reader of Natural Pursuits’ community pieces, you know that we frequently write about mental health issues, typically focusing on body image and self-acceptance.
As it’s National Suicide Prevention Week, today we’re expanding that scope to discuss suicide prevention, a critical issue that disproportionately impacts the LGBTQIA+ community.
In this piece, we’ll explore both external challenges, such as discrimination, violence, and systemic barriers, and internal pressures, like isolation and unrealistic social expectations. We’ll also provide actionable steps you can take to support those around you, along with resources for anyone personally struggling with thoughts of suicide. Whether you’re looking to help others or seeking guidance yourself, this piece will better equip you with knowledge and tools to foster a supportive and affirming community.
The Reality of Suicide and Mental Health in the LGBTQIA+ Community
Suicide is a major public health crisis, claiming over 700,000 lives annually worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. In 2022 alone, the U.S. saw over 49,000 deaths by suicide, equating to one death every 11 minutes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While these statistics are alarming on a global scale, the rates are even more staggering within the LGBTQIA+ community. The Trevor Project estimates that over 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S., ages 13 to 24, seriously consider suicide each year. Even more heart-wrenching, a member of this group attempts suicide every 45 seconds.
For transgender and nonbinary individuals, the risk is even higher due to compounded factors like discrimination, rejection, and violence. These individuals often lack access to affirming spaces and mental health care, which further exacerbates their vulnerability. By addressing these risk factors and raising awareness, we can work toward creating safer and more supportive environments for the LGBTQIA+ community, especially those who are most at risk.
Hostile Environments: External Challenges for the LGBTQIA+ Community
Numerous overlapping risk factors, rooted in societal discrimination, violence, and systemic barriers, drive the high suicide rates within the LGBTQIA+ community. These factors create hostile environments where LGBTQIA+ individuals struggle to find safety and support.
Hate Crimes and Violence
One of the most pressing concerns is the dramatic rise in hate crimes. According to the FBI’s 2022 annual crime report, incidents of anti-LGBTQIA+ hate crimes surged by 13.8%, with a staggering 32.9% increase in crimes targeting gender identity. In fact, 1 in 5 hate crimes are now driven by anti-LGBTQ+ bias, a trend that the Human Rights Campaign attributes to discriminatory legislation and hostile rhetoric, especially toward transgender individuals.
This environment has proven deadly for many, particularly transgender and gender-expansive individuals. In 2023, at least 32 transgender people were killed in acts of violence, with 50% of these victims being Black transgender women. A significant portion of these murders involved gun violence, and tragically, many of the victims were misgendered by authorities or the press, as reported by the Human Rights Campaign. These murders are a stark reminder of the life-threatening risks transgender individuals face simply for living authentically.
Erasure of LGBTQIA+ Voices
The erasure of LGBTQIA+ voices is another significant contributor to mental health struggles in this community. Representation in media, especially literature, offers crucial validation and affirmation for LGBTQIA+ youth. Schools across the U.S. enacted over 3,360 book bans during the 2022-2023 school year, with 53% of the most challenged books containing LGBTQ+ themes. This silencing of queer stories, especially in places like Florida, further alienates young LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking representation and belonging, as noted by Lambda Legal.
Discriminatory Legislation
Discriminatory legislation continues to be a pervasive threat to the well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals. The ACLU is currently tracking over 515 anti-LGBTQ bills across the U.S., many of which specifically target healthcare access, free speech, public accommodations, and legal identity recognition for transgender and nonbinary people.
For instance, healthcare restrictions are being enacted that limit transgender youth from receiving gender-affirming care, while other bills make it harder for individuals to update gender markers on identification documents. These barriers expose LGBTQIA+ people to job loss, harassment, and discrimination in everyday life. Further, efforts to ban drag performances and restrict LGBTQIA+ public expression are clear attacks on the community’s ability to live freely and authentically.
Isolation from Within: Internal Pressures in the LGBTQIA+ Community
While external pressures like discrimination and violence contribute significantly to mental health struggles in the LGBTQIA+ community, internal factors play a quieter but equally impactful role. Even after coming out, many LGBTQIA+ individuals face feelings of isolationโnot just from mainstream society but from within the LGBTQIA+ community itself. These internal challenges are often anecdotal, as less formal research has been conducted in this area, but they remain deeply felt by those experiencing them.
Queer and Rural: The Struggle for Community
For LGBTQIA+ individuals living in rural areas, isolation can be particularly acute. In many small towns and rural communities, there are fewer openly LGBTQIA+ people and fewer spaces designed for queer gatherings or support. This leaves many feeling disconnected from the broader LGBTQIA+ community, often leading to loneliness and alienation. The reasons for remaining in rural areas varyโsome stay due to financial constraints, a desire to remain close to family, or simply a preference for rural livingโbut the result is often the same: a lack of access to a supportive queer community.
This feeling of isolation can be compounded by the sense of not “fitting in” with the mainstream LGBTQIA+ culture that is more prominent in urban areas. Rural LGBTQIA+ individuals may not align with certain community norms regarding appearance, interests, or identity expression, further deepening their sense of separation.
Unrealistic Expectations: Social and Physical Pressures in Queer Spaces
In addition to geographic isolation, many LGBTQIA+ individuals experience social isolation when they feel they don’t meet the expectations often portrayed in media and social spaces. These images tend to highlight certain body types, styles, or interests, which can feel unattainable or unwelcoming to those who donโt fit into these narrow categoriesโwhether perceived as too feminine, not gay enough, or anywhere in between.
For some, not meeting these “requirements”โwhether related to body size, fitness level, or fashion choicesโcan lead to feelings of inadequacy or exclusion. Others may feel disconnected if they don’t enjoy the activities frequently showcased, such as nightlife or fitness culture, leaving them questioning where they fit within a community they hoped would offer acceptance and belonging.
These pressures, whether to present differently, can contribute to mental health challenges as individuals struggle to reconcile their authentic selves with the perceived standards of the community. By recognizing the diversity of expression and interests within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, we can build more inclusive spaces that celebrate individuality rather than conformity.
The Importance of Community and Support
One of the most effective ways to combat these challenges is through community support. Creating safe spaces where LGBTQIA+ individuals feel accepted and seen can be life-saving. Whether itโsit’sough LGBTQIA+ organizations, community events, or online support networks, these connections provide a sense of belonging and hope.
At Natural Pursuits, we aim to create such a space, where people can be their full, authentic selvesโfree from judgment. Our events focus on fostering acceptance and community, two crucial elements in mental health and suicide prevention.
What You Can Do
For those of us on the queer masculine spectrum, supporting each other is key in preventing suicide within our community. Whether youโre trying to be there for a friend or are personally struggling with mental health challenges, there are steps we can all take to make a difference.
If This Hits Close to Home
If some of the things mentioned here resonate with your personal experience and youโre dealing with thoughts of suicide or deep emotional pain, know that youโre not alone. Itโs not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by the pressures and challenges we face, especially when compounded by the risk factors discussed earlier. Your feelings are valid, and reaching out for support is a brave step.
There are people and resources who want to help, whether itโs through talking to a friend, connecting with a queer-affirming therapist, or seeking out a crisis hotline. You donโt have to face this struggle in silenceโthere are ways forward, and people who care about your well-being.
Create a Safe Space for Each Other
Being part of the queer community means understanding the unique challenges we face, from societal expectations of masculinity to pressures within the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether itโs in your close friend group or broader social circles, stand up against harmful behaviors and foster spaces where vulnerability is accepted and encouraged. Sometimes just showing up as a friend who listens can be a lifeline.
Normalize Conversations About Mental Health
Check in with friends regularly, especially when you sense something is off. Normalize discussions about feelings, stress, and struggles, so that it becomes easier for others to open up about their own mental health.
Support One Another
When someone close to you is struggling, offering support without judgment is powerful. Let them know itโs okay to feel what theyโre feeling and that theyโre not alone. If they need more help than you can offer, guide them toward mental health resources that affirm their queer identityโwhether itโs a therapist or an online support group that understands their experience.
Be Aware of the Warning Signs
Itโs important to recognize when someone might be in distress. Look out for signs like isolation, drastic changes in behavior, or talk about feeling hopeless. These could be indicators that someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts. Trust your gutโsometimes a simple conversation can make a huge difference in helping someone feel seen and heard.
Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, here are some resources that provide support specifically for the LGBTQIA+ community:
- The Trevor Project: 24/7 crisis support for LGBTQIA+ youth (Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678)
- Trans Lifeline: Peer support for transgender individuals (Call 877-565-8860)
- National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Available 24/7 (Call or text 988)
Standing Together to Make a Difference
The weight of these issues is undeniable, and the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals faceโboth external and internalโare profound. However, by addressing these struggles head-on and fostering a culture of support and acceptance, we can create real change.
If youโve felt a sense of isolation, hopelessness, or disconnect, remember that you are not alone. The pressures of fitting into societal or community expectations can be overwhelming, but there is strength in reaching out for help, whether through a friend, a community event, or professional support. No one should have to face these challenges in silence.
Together, we have the power to break the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide in the LGBTQIA+ community, especially among queer masculine individuals. By supporting each other, normalizing difficult conversations, and offering a listening ear, we can make a life-saving difference.
The journey toward self-acceptance and mental wellness is never easy, but with the support of those around us, it becomes possible. Whether youโre offering support to a friend or seeking it for yourself, remember that there is always a way forwardโand people who care about you.
Weโre in this together, and by standing up for ourselves and each other, we can create a community where every individual feels seen, valued, and supported.
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