Suicidality Within the LGBTQIA+ Community
In July 2023, I submitted my dissertation at Leeds Beckett University in support of my BSc (Hons) in Therapeutic Counselling. My research question was: “Why is there a huge suicide rate in young gay men in their 20s and 30s?”
Through this research, I critically analysed both academic literature and lived experiences, including challenges that I and others have faced in relation to sexuality. Writing this dissertation also allowed me to give something back to the LGBTQIA+ community, in memory of friends and acquaintances who sadly lost their lives far too soon.
I have decided to share elements of my dissertation as a blog in the hope of shedding light on a subject that is still often considered taboo: openly, honestly, and non-judgmentally talking about suicide within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Suicide is commonly understood as deliberate self-harm resulting in death and is often the culmination of suicidal thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Research consistently shows that, compared to heterosexual individuals, young gay men are at a significantly higher risk of suicidal ideation and attempts.
Each year, Pride celebrations take place across major cities worldwide to acknowledge the progress the LGBTQIA+ community has made in terms of visibility, equality, and legal rights, including same-sex marriage, which became legal in England and Wales in 2014 through the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013. There is also more support available than ever before through organisations such as MESMAC, LGBT Foundation, and George House Trust. Yet despite this progress, an important question remains: why do suicide rates among young gay men in their 20s and 30s remain so high?
This subject is deeply personal to me as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Over the past 20 years, I have lost many friends and acquaintances to suicide. Issues such as mental health difficulties, substance use, self-destructive behaviours, and relationship challenges are often linked to LGBTQIA+ experiences. While these issues affect the wider population, research suggests they occur more frequently within LGBTQIA+ communities, raising important questions about why this disparity continues to exist.
The aim of my dissertation was to explore and better understand why suicide rates remain so high by reviewing and analysing research published over the past 20 years. A key challenge was selecting from the extensive body of existing literature, much of which confirms that suicidality within the LGBTQIA+ community is an ongoing and unresolved issue. This highlights the urgent need for more effective prevention strategies to prevent further loss of life.
My research explored several interconnected themes, including discrimination based on sexuality, race, age, gender, and disability; stigma and negative societal assumptions; experiences of bullying, judgement, and homophobia; and the prevalence of suicidal thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
Studies suggest that gay men are more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, low mood, substance misuse, and deliberate self-harm linked to their sexual orientation. The impact of suicide within the community can be devastating, not only for the individual but also for families, friends, and wider society. Compared to heterosexual individuals, young gay people are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and behaviours across their lifetime, often creating a profound ripple effect of grief and trauma.
Additional themes identified in the research included risky sexual behaviour, drug and alcohol use, emotional difficulties, loneliness, isolation, financial insecurity, shame, and internalised self-judgement. Many young gay men also experience a lack of appropriate support within education, healthcare, and addiction recovery services. Importantly, the research highlighted that these findings can inform future studies and contribute to preventative approaches that may reduce self-loathing, self-harm, and suicidal behaviours.
Despite increased visibility and acceptance in the 21st century, stigma, homophobia, and victimisation continue to negatively affect the health and wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ individuals. A substantial body of research links bullying and violence to internalised homophobia and increased vulnerability, particularly among younger members of the community.
This topic remains highly relevant today. If being LGBTQIA+ is more accepted than ever before, why are suicide rates among young gay people still so high? Despite existing support systems, many individuals continue to struggle in silence, resulting in ongoing trauma and loss for those left behind.
The purpose of my dissertation and this blog is to increase awareness of the impact of suicide within the LGBTQIA+ community and among loved ones affected by loss. It also serves as a reminder of the seriousness of this issue and may contribute to future research and prevention efforts. I hope it offers validation to LGBTQIA+ individuals who have experienced distress linked to their sexuality and reassures them that they are not alone.
This work may also support heterosexual readers in developing greater empathy and understanding, potentially reducing stigma and homophobia. Increased awareness among professionals — including counsellors, support workers, and healthcare providers — is essential to ensure that LGBTQIA+ individuals receive informed, sensitive, and appropriate support.
Content note:
The nature of this blog is sensitive. Some readers may have experienced suicidal thoughts or the loss of someone to suicide. The content may feel distressing or triggering. If you are currently experiencing suicidal thoughts or need immediate support, please contact NHS 111, your GP, or the Samaritans on 116 123.
For further LGBTQIA+ support, please see the following organisations:
MESMAC – https://www.mesmac.co.uk
LGBT Foundation – https://lgbt.foundation
George House Trust – https://ght.org.uk
Thank you for taking the time to read.
Jamie Moffat