A recent report from the Trevor Project shines a light on the critical need for acceptance among intersex youth. It reveals that a staggering 48% of LGBTQIA+ intersex youths contemplated suicide in the past year, underscoring the urgency for inclusion and support.
It’s heartbreaking to know that suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people, and LGBTQIA+ youth are four times more likely to seriously consider suicide compared to their straight, cisgender peers. When it comes to intersex youths, the situation is even more alarming. Nearly 19% of intersex youths reported attempting suicide in the last year, while 14% of their non-intersex LGBTQ peers did the same.
The Trevor Project, which aims to support LGBTQIA+ youth and prevent suicide, surveyed over 1,000 intersex individuals aged 13 to 24 for its 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health. Although Planned Parenthood estimates that 1 to 2 in every 100 people born in the U.S. are intersex, it’s the younger members of this community who face the highest risk, often due to mistreatment from peers, family, and medical professionals, who may impose surgeries or treatments to fit them into a strict male or female category.
The report shows that 48% of intersex youths considered suicide in the last year, compared to 41% of non-intersex LGBTQ youths. Among those aged 13 to 17, nearly one in four (24%) reported a suicide attempt in the past year, while the figure drops to 14% for those aged 18 to 24.
Understanding the Struggles of Intersex Youth
So, why are intersex youths struggling so much? The report points to several factors, including unnecessary medical interventions, societal pressure to conform to a single gender, and issues like discrimination, housing instability, and food insecurity. “We already know that mental health challenges are more prevalent in LGBTQ youth compared to their straight counterparts, and intersex youth face even higher rates,” said Jenna Thompson, a senior research scientist at the Trevor Project, in an interview with a news outlet.
A Glimmer of Hope
But here’s the glimmer of hope: acceptance can make a difference. The report emphasizes that intersex youth are more than just their physical attributes. Having at least one accepting parent can reduce suicide attempts by 55% for intersex youths and 45% for those in accepting friend groups. The report also advocates for policy changes, such as gender-neutral restrooms and inclusive sex education, to foster true acceptance.
It’s important for intersex youth to hear that they are seen and accepted for who they are. Many are denied the chance to fully express themselves, often starting from birth. Change is long overdue.
Resources for Support
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Conclusion
In summary, the Trevor Project’s report underscores the alarming mental health crisis facing intersex youth and emphasizes the transformative power of acceptance and support from family and peers. The need for inclusive policies is urgent, and the message must be clear: we see you, we accept you, and you are not alone.
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