Study: Transgender Laws Tied to Rising Suicide Attempts

Facts

• According to a new study published in Nature Human Behaviour, during 2018-2022, the number of suicide attempts by transgender youth increased in 19 US states that passed laws regarding transgender-specific restrictions for medical transitions and other issues.^[1]
• The laws, which include curbing gender transition-related care and school athletics participation, reportedly raised youth suicide attempts by 7-72%.^[2]
• The alleged correlation between restrictive legislation and suicide was characterized as 'terrifying' by The Trevor Project, an NGO focusing on suicide prevention within the LGBTQ+ community. This comes as the American College of Pediatricians previously released a position statement allegedly correlating puberty blockers and other treatments themselves to higher rates of mental health stress in young people.^[3][4]
• In 2024, 45 bills have been passed across 16 states that provide restrictions around youth access to gender transition-related health care, sports participation, and other issues. Per a Washington Post-KFF poll, a majority of Americans support these GOP-led restrictions.^[5][6]
• Findings from the Pew Research Center suggest a complex view of Americans around this issue, with a 2022 survey showing 64% backing protection for trans people from discrimination, but 60% also saying that sex is determined from birth.^[7]
• A recent study by the American Principles Project showed revenues from gender transition-based drugs and surgeries in the medical industry in 2023 surpassing $4.4B — and potentially $7.8B by 2030. The cost of such treatments per person can total over $100K and is frequently not covered by insurance.^[8][9]

Sources: ^[1]Nature, ^[2]NBC, ^[3]Them, ^[4]Archive, ^[5]Translegislation, ^[6]Washington Post, ^[7]Pew Research Center, ^[8]FOX News and ^[9]Business Insider.

Narratives

• Narrative A, as provided by CNN. The trans community needs to be treated with the utmost sensitivity and compassion. Family rejection, discrimination, and a lack of access to affirming care — which is extremely expensive — significantly contribute to their heartbreaking situation. However, support from loved ones and access to gender-affirming treatments can dramatically reduce suicide risk. It's crucial to approach this issue with empathy, creating safe spaces and advocating for inclusive policies.
• Narrative B, as provided by Genspect. The exact nature and extent of the risks of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in the trans community is complex and often misunderstood. Mental health professionals stress the importance of comprehensive support for transgender people and not just gender-related concerns. While gender affirmation may be beneficial, it's essential to consider each person's unique needs and circumstances, ensuring that interventions are tailored to the individual's best interests.

Predictions