Suicidal acts and ideation in homosexual and bisexual young people: a study of prevalence and risk factors

Background: Suicide attempts are the most robust clinical predictor of suic ide, which is now the second cause of death among young people in many coun tries. Previous research has shown an increased risk of attempted suicide a ssociated with a homosexual orientation. However, the mechanisms underlying this increased risk are not yet clear. This study therefore aimed to deter mine the risk of attempted suicide and the effect of potential risk factors on the occurrence of suicidal ideation and behaviour among homosexual youn gsters. Methods: The association between suicidal ideation and behaviour an d potential risk factors was assessed by means of a questionnaire in a gene ral population sample of homosexual or bisexual young people and a control sample consisting of school pupils. Results: A twofold increased risk of su icidal ideation was found associated with a homosexual or bisexual orientat ion. A significantly increased risk of attempted suicide associated with ho mosexuality or bisexuality was found in females. Independent of sexual orie ntation, depression was identified as a significant risk factor for suicida l ideation, while suicidal behaviour was associated with low self-esteem, h igher levels of hopelessness and suicidal behaviour in someone close. Among homosexual or bisexual young people, less satisfying homosexual friendship s were an additional risk factor for suicidal behaviour. Conclusions: The i dentified increased risk of suicidal ideation among homosexual or bisexual young people is associated with depression and may lead to suicidal behavio ur, independent of sexual orientation, especially in the presence of a role model of suicidal behaviour, and among those with unsatisfying friendships .