This two-stage project studied the meaning and experiences of self-harm and suicidal distress. The results informed suicide prevention strategies at local and national levels and contributed to national/international understanding of LGBT lives.

‘We’re here, we’re queer…. but why are we killing ourselves?: Research into the nature of suicidal distress in the LGBT community

Background

Research has shown that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals have a higher risk of self-harm, suicidal thoughts and mental distress than heterosexuals. In the 2001 Brighton and Hove Count Me In survey 40 per cent of LGBT individuals who responded had considered suicide and about 20 per cent had attempted it.

Project Outline

To improve local services, there needs to be greater understanding of the reasons – personal and societal - behind such distress. The project ran in partnership between the University of Brighton and MindOut (a local LGBT mental health service run by Mind). Phase 1, supported by a BSCKE grant, studied the meaning and experiences of self-harm and suicidal distress. The results informed suicide prevention strategies at local and national levels and contribute to national/international understanding of LGBT lives.

The findings supported the work of a local MindOut development worker, funded by the National Institute for Mental Health England, and contributed to the development of an MSc in Psychosocial Studies in the university’s School of Applied Social Science.