In recent years, conversations around mental health have become more open — and more urgent. Among the most vulnerable groups are transgender youth, who face unique challenges that too often go unspoken, ignored, or actively denied.
The truth is hard but necessary to face: transgender and nonbinary youth are at a significantly higher risk of suicide than their cisgender peers. According to research from organizations like The Trevor Project, nearly 1 in 4 trans youth attempt suicide each year. And in environments where their identities are criminalized or invalidated — such as states with anti-transgender legislation — that risk only rises.
Why Are Trans Youth at Higher Risk?
It’s not because they are transgender. It’s because of how they are treated for being transgender.
Many trans youth face a combination of:
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Family rejection
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Bullying and harassment at school
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Discrimination in healthcare
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Lack of access to gender-affirming care
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Legal and political attacks on their identity
Imagine trying to grow up — to figure out who you are — while being told by your community, school, or lawmakers that who you are is unacceptable. That level of chronic stress and fear creates an environment where depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation can thrive.
The Protective Power of Support
The difference that support makes cannot be overstated. Research shows that transgender youth who have supportive families, affirming schools, and access to gender-affirming healthcare are significantly less likely to consider or attempt suicide. Just one affirming adult in a young person’s life can reduce their risk of suicide by 40%. Family support. Teacher support. Friend support. Policy support. It all matters.
What Can We Do?
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Listen to Trans Youth – Let them tell their stories without judgment.
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Support Gender-Affirming Policies – Laws that ensure access to affirming healthcare, education, and safe spaces save lives.
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Speak Out Against Hate – Whether it’s in the news, in your school, or at your dinner table.
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Donate to and Volunteer With LGBTQ+ Organizations – Groups like The Trevor Project, Trans Lifeline, and local LGBTQ+ centers provide critical resources and crisis support.
If You’re Struggling
If you’re a trans young person reading this and you’re in pain, know this: you are not alone, and your life is worth living. There are people — even strangers — who care and want to help.
📞 Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860 (run by and for trans people)
📞 Trevor Project Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
📞 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988