CALIFORNIA: Study Shows Transgender Students Are at Significant Risk for Suicidal Thoughts

Medical Xpress

According to a recent study, transgender youth in California are at significantly higher risk for suicidal thoughts than their non-transgender peers. Researchers examined data from high school students across the state and found that 34 percent of transgender participants and 19 percent of non-transgender participants reported experiencing suicidal thoughts in the past year. Results also indicated that higher rates of depression and victimization among transgender youth partly accounted for their increased risk of suicidal thoughts. The authors emphasized the importance of including gender identity in health surveys of young people in order to better understand and address their needs. “Like all students, transgender youth deserve to be safe and supported at school,” said study author Stephen Russell. “These results show that reducing depression and victimization for transgender students should significantly reduce their suicide-related risk.”

Spark Extra! Read the study abstract.