Majority of LGBTQ+ youth screen positive for depression, survey finds

Approximately 55.1 per cent of all LGBTQ+ youth screen positive for depression, according to a new survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC).

The 2023 LGBTQ+ Report compiled the findings of the HRC’s 2022 Youth Survey.

The results revealed “persistent, serious challenges for LGBTQ+ youth” across the USA, continuing the trends observed by its 2017 study.

The statistic was even higher for trans and gender-expansive youth, with 60 per cent screening positive for depression.

The report also investigated the safety and comfort of LGBTQ+ youth in home and school environments.

Almost half of those surveyed felt unsafe in at least one school setting, with the figure being even higher for trans students.

Additionally, 57.4 per cent reported at least one experience of parental rejection.

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On the other hand, the findings suggested a more hopeful conclusion.

Approximately 56.8 per cent of the responders somewhat or strongly agreed that the LGBTQ+ community is accepted more every day by society and 47 per cent felt proud to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community.

The state of LGBTQ+ rights in America is visibly impacting LGBTQ+ youth

The legislative attacks against the LGBTQ+ community have been rampant in 2023. For the first time in their history, the HRC issued a national state of emergency for LGBTQ+ Americans.

In May, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed what has been called the “largest slate” of anti-LGBTQ+ bills in the state’s history.

The anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric pervading the USA, especially this year, is taking a visible toll on the country’s LGBTQ+ youth.

“In many cases, the cards remain stacked against LGBTQ+ youth in terms of acceptance and support from their families, their mental health and safety in schools,” the report said.

“Transgender and gender-expansive youth also face unique challenges, with harmful anti-trans laws, and a lack of inclusive school policies and procedures, creating obstacles to their safety and well-being.”

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However, the report suggested that there may be hope for American LGBTQ+ youth in the future.

“Across the country, LGBTQ+ youth are advocating for inclusivity in their homes, schools and communities,” the report explained.

“Parents, caregivers, school administrators, educators, counselors and other youth-serving professionals can support LGBTQ+ youth by following their lead and implementing the actionable guidelines at the end of this report, in order to create safe, affirming, and welcoming spaces.”

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