Transgender and gender-diverse individuals experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts compared to cisgender individuals. Transgender individuals do not identify with the sex assigned to them at birth, while gender-diverse or non-binary individuals may not exclusively identify with either male or female genders.
A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health in 2020 found that transgender and gender-diverse teens and young adults are twice as likely to experience depression or suicidal thoughts, or to attempt suicide, compared to their gay, lesbian, and bisexual peers.
The Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law reported in 2019 that more than 81% of transgender individuals have had suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives, with about 48% experiencing these thoughts in the previous year. Furthermore, around 40% of transgender individuals have attempted suicide, with about 7% making an attempt in the past year.
The elevated levels of depression and anxiety among transgender and gender-diverse individuals are often linked to their lived experiences, which may include discrimination, social stigma, and lack of acceptance. Addressing these mental health challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes supportive communities, accessible mental health services, and policies that promote acceptance and understanding of gender diversity.
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