Preventing Suicide Among Trans and Gender Diverse Young People: A Discussion of Current Research

In this course, Penelope Strauss, Research Fellow, Telethon Kids Institute, discusses the findings of her research into the mental health of trans and gender diverse (TGD) young people. She notes that the study was conducted because LGBTIQA+ young people experience higher rates of mental health difficulties and poorer mental health than same-gender-attracted young people in Australia, and not much has been known about their experience. Strauss briefly explains the methods and topics used in the study with the 859 TGD participants and 194 parents/guardians. She then outlines findings which consistently show how factors such as abuse, issues with school/university/TAFE, lack of parental support, accommodation issues, and poor health system response have greatly worsened TGD young people’s mental health. Protective factors for mental health are identified, followed by what Strauss and her associates are doing going forward to improve the mental health of TGD young people. Resources and terminology tips are briefly mentioned. The talk finishes with a question-and-answer session.