Breaking: 1 in 10 LGBTQ+ Youth Attempted Suicide Last Year
A staggering new survey from The Trevor Project reveals that 10% of LGBTQ+ young people aged 13 to 24 attempted suicide in the past year, while over one-third seriously considered it. The findings, based on responses from 16,000 participants, underscore a mental health crisis exacerbated by political debates and school environments.
“When adults, institutions, and communities become more affirming, the suicide risk of LGBTQ+ young people goes down,” said Ronita Nath, the Trevor Project’s vice president of research. She emphasized that schools can play a “life-saving support” by creating safe, accepting spaces.
Key Findings from the Survey
- 1 in 10 attempted suicide; over one-third seriously considered it.
- 44% could not access needed mental health services—due to cost, transportation, or fear of not being understood.
- Youth experiencing victimization (bullying, physical harm, conversion therapy) were three times more likely to attempt suicide.
- Those in affirming schools saw lower suicide risk.
Jump to: What This Means for Schools
Background: Rising Anti-LGBTQ+ Policies Add to Strain
2026 is on track to be another record-breaking year for anti-LGBTQ+ bills at state and federal levels, the survey notes. A majority of respondents reported feeling stressed, anxious, or unsafe due to these policies and surrounding debates.
Nath warned that negative rhetoric has real consequences: “When young people are caught in the crossfire of heated political debates, the damage trickles down.” The survey found that victimization directly correlates with suicide attempts, but affirmation from schools can counter that harm.
What This Means: Schools Can Be a Lifeline
The data points to clear actions educators can take. Nath urged schools to establish Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs), enforce anti-harassment policies, and provide professional development for staff. “We know that not only improves mental health for LGBTQ+ youth, but for all their peers,” she said.
Access to mental health services is critical. Many youth cited fear of not being taken seriously or past negative experiences as barriers. Schools can bridge that gap by offering on-campus counseling and affirming care.
Expert Reaction and Next Steps
Researchers stress that the crisis is urgent but solvable. “Schools are on the front lines—they can either heighten or reduce risk,” Nath added. With 44% of LGBTQ+ youth unable to access mental health care, school-based interventions are not optional; they are essential.
The Trevor Project continues to advocate for inclusive curricula and safe school climates. As one survey participant noted, a supportive teacher or GSA can make the difference between despair and hope.