Purpose of Review The aim of this paper was 1) to evaluate contributing factors to high suicidality rates among LGBTQ+ youth, and 2) to explore options for interventions to improve mental health and reduce suicidality among LGBTQ+ youth. Recent Findings Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the United States (U.S.) among those age 10-24, and rates have increased significantly over the past decade. The burden of suicidality, including suicidal ideation, plans, and attempts in U.S. youth is disproportionately shared by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth, with U.S. high schoolers who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual being nearly four times as likely as their heterosexual peers to attempt suicide. Opportunities to address disproportionate suicidality in LGBTQ+ youth exist at several levels. Summary Various social determinants of health contribute to disproportionate rates of suicidality for LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S., including national and state policy, income and housing discrepancies, social support in schools and homes, and access to nondiscriminatory health care. As determined by a causal loop diagram and supported by a socioecological framework, increasing access to health care through means such as telehealth services and developing cultural competency programs aimed at reducing stigma is vital. In addition, involving families, teachers, and peers of LGBTQ+ youth will be critical in building and strengthening existing school-based programs to enhance support and belonging for LGBTQ+ youth.
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