Transgender people (especially youth) have some of the highest suicide rates in the country. 82% of transgender people have considered suicide, and 40% have attempted to end their lives. Every single trans person I know has considered ending their lives. That includes me.
Too often, when statistics like these are brought up, people become defensive. They bring up sports, or bathrooms or religious doctrine. This is part of the problem. Our existence has become a political issue, and even talking about mental health is taking a side. It shouldn’t be. Regardless of opinions and beliefs, we should all do what we can to save lives. The fact is, these high rates aren’t caused by being trans. They are caused by transphobia. We experience hatred and mockery, whether in school, at home, or just walking down the street. I rarely go out in public without feeling unsafe anymore. Without friends and family that support us, it’s difficult (sometimes impossible) to cope.
These shocking figures drop dramatically when youth are supported, especially by their parents and family members. According to the Trevor Project, if trans youth are accepted by just one adult, they have 39% lower odds of a suicide attempt in the past year.
It doesn’t take much to prevent suicide and save lives. Stand up for trans people when you witness bigotry. If you can’t do that, offer a safe place to talk, and a shoulder to cry on. Make a conscious effort to love everyone, regardless of beliefs or identity. In the end, we’re all human beings who deserve to feel like we matter.
Ending trans suicide begins with you. Please, support the trans people in your life. We’re here, we’re dying, and we need you.
Isabella Erwin, South Jordan