A recent study published in Nature Human Behaviour has revealed a concerning link between anti-transgender legislation and a significant increase in suicide attempts among transgender and nonbinary youth in the United States. The research, conducted over four years, found that states implementing anti-trans laws saw suicide attempt rates rise by up to 72% among TGNB youth aged 13 to 17. The study analyzed data from over 61,000 TGNB individuals across all 50 states, providing compelling evidence of the impact of these laws on young people’s mental health.
The study highlighted that 48 anti-trans laws were enacted in the USA from 2018 to 2022, primarily targeting gender-affirming care, bathroom access, and school policies. The research team used a difference-in-differences approach to compare suicide attempt rates before and after the implementation of anti-trans laws, revealing a significant increase in suicide attempts among TGNB youth in states with such legislation.
These findings come at a time of heightened debate over transgender rights in state legislatures across the country. The research underscores the detrimental effects of anti-trans laws on TGNB youth and emphasizes the importance of gender-affirming care in saving lives. The study’s authors hope their findings will influence voters and policymakers as the 2024 election season approaches to advocate for protective policies for TGNB individuals.
With states continuing to consider anti-trans legislation, this study sheds light on the dire consequences of such policies and emphasizes the urgency of evaluating their mental health impact. The researchers stress the need to prioritize the well-being of TGNB youth and advocate for policies that protect their rights and safety.
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