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Homosexual teens may have an increased risk for depression and suicidal ideation

By Staff Writer

Lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) teens can have a set of developmental challenges that are unique to this group. For example, research from Concordia University suggest that LGB adolescents have an increased risk for severe mental problems as a result of being victimized, rejected and abused.

The study, which is published as a doctoral thesis, shows that LGB teens have suicide rates that are up to 14 times higher than their heterosexual peers. The researcher studied the link between living in a homophobic environment and "internalized homophobia," which is described as low self-esteem that is connected to sexual identity.

He found that adolescents who experienced more stress related to being LGB - such as arguments about sexual identity, bullying and discrimination - had higher internalized homophobia and showed increased production of the stress hormone cortisol, compared to their peers.

Additionally, these subjects had more symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as suicidal thoughts. The researcher concluded that preventative measures are needed to protect LGB youth from unnecessary stress.

This is the first study to find a link between homophobia and increased cortisol. 

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