Trusted adults improve mental health in LGBQ+ teens

A new Tulane University study finds gay and bisexual teens with a trusted adult to turn to have significantly better mental health than those without, including lower rates of depression and suicidal thoughts. Published Oct. 12 in JAMA Pediatrics, the national survey of teens aged 12-17 showed 61% of gay and lesbian teens without a trusted person experienced depression, versus 35% with one. For suicidal thoughts, the gap was 66% versus 27%. LGBQ+ teens were also less likely than heterosexual peers to turn to parents, often relying on friends or other adults instead. Lead author Evan Krueger notes LGBQ+ youth face extra stressors like stigma and bullying, and supportive relationships may help reduce mental health disparities. The findings suggest schools, families, and communities all play a role in ensuring no teen faces a serious problem alone.