What You Should Know During National Suicide Prevention Week

When it comes to LGBTQ people and suicide, the statistics are harrowing. The rate of suicide attempts increases 5 times when you are LGB and the possibility of an attempt is even higher for people not cisgender. LGBTQ youth cite lack of acceptance as a big reason for their suicidal ideation, with the possibility of an attempt increasing 8.5 percent with children who feel like their family does not, or will not, accept them. There have been many steps taken to try and help the tragic reality of the suicide epidemic in the LGBTQ community, such as the "The Flag We Shouldn't Be Proud Of" movement, announced on Monday, the start of Suicide Prevention Week.

Olly Alexander, a gay British pop star, teamed up with the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, to create the movement and bring attention to the reality of how many lives have been lost and the lives that will be lost if we continue down this path. Coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the original Pride flag, The Flag We Shouldn't Be Proud Of is the traditional Pride flag with two colors taken out -- red, representing life, and blue, representing harmony. The flag is a visual reminder that we as a community still need to work on supporting each other and strengthening our mental health. In the meantime, there are some organizations dedicated to helping LGBTQ youth with mental health and providing them with resources. The most well known is The Trevor Project, which can be reached by phone (866-488-7386) 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

More notable resources are the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which can be reached by phone at 800-273-8255. They also provide a 24/7 online crisis chat service at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/.

There is also the It Gets Better Project, focusing on uplifting and empowering LGBT individuals.

There is the True Colors Fund that specializes in the homeless LGBTQ+ youth -- reach them at 212-461-4401.

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: 888-843-4564, and the The GLBT National Youth Talkline also offer services: 800-246-7743.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please seek help and know that you are not alone.