A new study from Tulane University researchers reveals that gay and bisexual teens with someone to confide in for serious problems experience significantly better mental health outcomes compared to those who lack such support. The research highlights a concerning statistic: among gay and lesbian teens, 61% without a trusted confidant reported experiencing depression within the past year, while this figure dropped to 35% for those with someone to lean on. The disparity was even more pronounced regarding suicidal thoughts; 66% of those without a trusted person had seriously contemplated suicide, compared to 27% who had support.
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Evan Krueger, the lead author and assistant professor in the Tulane University School of Social Work, stated, "Across the board, having someone to talk to was linked to lower rates of depression, suicidal thoughts, and having a suicide plan in the past year. But for many LGBQ+ youth, it made an even bigger difference." The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, analyzed data from a national survey of adolescents aged 12 to 17.
The research team also investigated the sources of support for teenagers and found notable differences among sexual orientation groups. Approximately 80% of heterosexual teens indicated they would seek help from a parent, while only about 60% of gay, lesbian, and bisexual teens felt the same. Krueger remarked, "Being a teenager is already hard, and LGBQ+ youth face extra stressors, like stigma, discrimination, and bullying, on top of the everyday challenges. When dealing with serious issues, heterosexual youth were more likely to turn to their parents, whereas LGBQ+ youth were less inclined to do so."
Instead, LGBQ+ teens were more likely to seek support from friends, romantic partners, and other adults. "LGBQ+ youth are resourceful," Krueger noted. "When they don't find support at home, many are finding it elsewhere with friends, partners, or other adults. This doesn't mean they don't need their parents; it shows they are actively seeking connections."
The study also emphasizes the critical role that supportive school personnel, including teachers and counselors, play in fostering a safe environment for LGBQ+ youth, potentially lowering suicide risks. Experts suggest that recent improvements in teen mental health, seen in data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, may be attributed to school-based initiatives that provide support.
Krueger recommends that strengthening meaningful supportive relationships is essential for reducing mental health disparities among LGBQ+ youth. "Supportive relationships benefit all kids, but focusing on these connections may also help address the mental health challenges faced by LGBQ+ youth," he concluded.
The study was coauthored by Isaac Wright, a recent graduate from the School of Social Work.