Since it was first launched under President George W. Bush, the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention (NSSP) has increased its focus of groups of special concern, with the latest revision zeroing in on the LGBT population.
Citing “minority stress” as the likely causal factor of why LGBT people are at greater risk than for suicide than the general population, the prevention strategy outlined some specific causes, such as “institutional discrimination.” The campaign, which launched this week with an unveiling by Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, the also points to factors such as bullying in schools.
“These negative outcomes, rather than minority sexual orientation or gender identity per se, appear to be the key risk factors for LGBT suicidal ideation and behavior,” NSSP said in a written statement. “An additional risk factor is contagion resulting from media coverage of LGBT suicide deaths that presents suicidal behavior as a normal, rational response to anti-LGBT bullying or other experiences of discrimination.”
The Obama administrations will grow the staff at the national hotline (1-800-273-TALK ) by 50 percent. The program cost $56 million and has nationwide reach that includes access for anyone among the U.S. population, including military servicemembers and the deaf.
