Standing with our LGBTIQ+ community

A disproportionate number of LGBTIQA+ people experience poorer mental health outcomes and have higher risk of suicidal behaviours than their peers.

A report from LGBTIQ+ Health Australia states that LGBTQA+ young people aged 16 to 17 were almost five times more likely to have attempted suicide in their lifetime and transgender people aged 14-25 are fifteen times more likely.

Stephen Stathis, Medical Director at Children’s Health Queensland’s Child and Youth Mental Health Service says that despite major changes in laws and social acceptance - prejudice, stigma, harassment and systemic discrimination still exist.

“We have seen a good example of this in the media recently, and it’s these types of events that can contribute considerably to increased risk of mental health, substance use and suicide for this vulnerable group.

“We need to be mindful of the potential for increased distress for our young people and families who identify as diverse in sexuality and/or gender, and those who are questioning their sexuality and/or gender diversity.

“It is important to also remember that all young people are in the process of making sense of their identities, their bodies and romantic/sexual relationships.

The Child Youth and Mental Health Service offers a welcoming and safe space for this exploration.

“It is important that we provide support for the pain and confusion that young people face when spaces outside of our therapy rooms are not as safe,” Mr Stathis said.

“We would like to think that by ‘standing with all kids’ the work we do here at Children’s Health Queensland provides opportunities for young people to have pride in and celebrate the extraordinary diversity of their bodies, genders, sexualities and relationships.”

Clinician and family resources recommended by the Queensland Children's Gender Service:

Young people

• QLife
• Open Doors Youth Service
• Minus18
• QHRC: Trans @ School Queensland Human Rights Commission

Parents

• Gender identity, diversity and dysphoria: supporting your child
• Transcend Australia
• Parents of Gender Diverse Children
• Queensland Children’s Gender Service
• QHRC: Trans @ School Queensland Human Rights Commission

Clinicians

• suite of videos and factsheets for mental health clinicians
• TransHub