June 30, 2026

Pride Month: Support, Acceptance and Mental Health Outcomes

As Pride Month comes to a close, we remember LGBTQ+ young people are a part of every community in Missouri. They deserve to grow up feeling safe, valued and supported. Yet, many continue to face higher rates of bullying, rejection and discrimination, experiences that can have serious impacts on mental health. However, research consistently shows supportive adults and accepting communities can make a difference. 

According to The Trevor Project’s 2025 National Survey, more than one in three LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered suicide in the past year. These numbers are concerning, but they are not inevitable. The same research found that young people living in accepting communities reported attempting suicide at less than one-third the rate of those living in very unaccepting communities. In other words, support saves lives. 

These statistics are a wake-up call to look at the risk factors associated with suicide and focus on prevention. According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, some risk factors include: mental health disorders, previous suicide attempts, family dynamics, specific life events and access to lethal means. LGBTQ+ youth continue to experience significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. 

Understanding the Disparities Facing LGBTQ+ Youth

According to The Trevor Project’s 2025 National Survey, 36% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. The rates are even higher among transgender and nonbinary individuals. It’s important to note that LGBTQ+ young people are not inherently at higher risk for suicide due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. They face increased risk because of the mistreatment and stigma they encounter in society.

These disparities between LGBTQ+ youth and non-LGBTQ+ youth highlights the need for effective interventions and support systems. Social support and acceptance from peers and adults can make a meaningful difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth. Supportive environments, acceptance and affirming practices all help reduce suicide risk and improve mental health outcomes in the LGBTQ+ community. 

LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care

While research and reports surrounding LGBTQ+ youth have slowed in recent years, we know these young people are over-represented within the child welfare system. Best estimates suggest that while LGBTQ+ youth make up about 10% of the general population in the United States, they make up closer to 25% of youth in foster care.

In a report released in September 2023 by the Biden administration (which has since been removed from the official White House website), it noted, “Because of family rejection and abuse, [LGBTQ children are] overrepresented in foster care where they face poor outcomes, including mistreatment and discrimination because of who they are.” In fact, in certain cases, children might land in the child welfare system because of their family’s negative responses to their sexual orientation and gender identity. Some even choose to hide their true selves after entering a foster home for fear of more rejection.

Power in Social Support and Acceptance

One of the most impactful protective factors is having supportive adults and peers. LGBTQ+ young people with at least one accepting adult in their lives report significantly lower rates of suicide attempts (The Trevor Project). 

Communities also play a vital role. Whether it’s an affirming school, a welcoming neighborhood or a trusted mentor, environments where LGBTQ+ youth feel safe and respected are associated with better mental health outcomes. Young people in accepting environments show much lower rates of suicide attempts according to The Trevor Project. Together, these findings reinforce a simple but powerful message: support and affirmation save lives.

For more information about supporting Missouri’s LGBTQ+ youth in foster care, you can find a best practices guide for placement providers on Missouri Children’s Division website. Additional resources can be found below.

Conclusion 

Every young person deserves to know they belong. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, neighbor or friend, you have the opportunity to create spaces where every youth feels seen, respected and safe. Acceptance isn’t just a kind gesture, it is a protective factor that can change and even save lives. 

As Pride Month comes to an end, let’s continue to celebrate the resilience of LGBTQ+ youth while recommitting ourselves to building communities where every young person can thrive. Because when any young person is left without the support they deserve, our work isn’t finished. We all have a role to play in creating a Missouri where every child and family feels they belong.

Hotlines: 

  • GLBT National Youth Talkline: (800) 246-7743
  • Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (available 24 hours a day): 988
  • The Trevor Helpline: (866) 488-7386

National and Online Resources: 

Blog Post by Brianna Bowman