Brochure created
for at-risk LGBT youth

The National Runaway Switchboard hopes to reduce the number of runaways and suicides with a new brochure that addresses issues for LGBTQ teens. "Being Out, Being Safe" gives young people resources and advice on issues like hiding one's sexuality, lack of family support, bullying, and accepting one's sexual orientation.

"Research shows that LGBTQ youth are four times more likely to exhibit the symptoms of major depression than heterosexual youth, which may lead to a runaway episode," said Maureen Blaha, NRS executive director.

The brochure also has statistics and information for teachers, parents, and guardians to understand the LGBTQ adolescent in their life.

Nearly 60% of homeless and runaway LGBTQ youth have been sexually victimized, while 33.4% of homeless and runaway heterosexual youth have been sexually victimized, according to The Journal of Sex Research. (The Advocate)