LGBTQ+. That’s the current set of letters that we use to refer to a wide range of gender- and sexuality-variant people. You might feel like all of the changes in language to refer to these things are hard to keep up with–they certainly can be! But don’t let that intimidate you. 

It’s important to recognize that LGBTQ+ kids are at greater risk of mental illness and suicide due to the challenges they frequently have to navigate by how they are received in the world - especially when they don’t have supportive adults in their lives. 

Take a look at some of these statistics from the Trevor Project:

• 36% of LGBTQ+ kids reported that they have been physically threatened or harmed due to either their sexual orientation or gender identity.

• 73% of LGBTQ+ kids experience symptoms of anxiety; 58% experience symptoms of depression. 

• 45% of LGBTQ+ kids seriously considered suicide in 2021 and 14% attempted. Those who attend schools and/or live in communities that are accepting have much lower rates of suicidal ideation and attempts.

• LGBTQ+ kids who have been physically threatened or harmed due to their sexual orientation or their gender identity are 3x more likely to attempt suicide than those who haven’t. The same is true of LGBTQ+ kids who have experienced discrimination.

But the good news is that having access to affirming spaces lowers suicide risk by 33%! 

That’s where you come in. Being a good leader and ally doesn’t take being LGBTQ+ yourself, being an expert on LGBTQ+ identities, or even an ability to say LGBTQ+ ten times fast.  It just requires you to treat all kids with care and respect–something you’re likely already doing anyway!

Sometimes people worry that supporting LGBTQ+ kids requires special treatment. But it doesn’t! Whenever I talk with educators and out-of-school-time professionals, I always remind them that LGBTQ+ kids have the same needs as all kids. And you already know how to meet kids’ needs, right? That’s why you’re so good at your job. 

All you really have to do to support LGBTQ+ kids is to listen, be non-judgmental, and be a trusted adult who models care and respect. If you see other kids bullying LGBTQ+ kids, intervene like you normally would. Help them exhibit non-judgment and respect, too. Doing things you’re already doing well has the power to save lives.