A systematic review of the factors associated with suicide attempts among sexual-minority adolescents

Introduction Suicide attempt is a worldwide major public health problem, that accounts for 1.4% of all deaths worldwide Recent literature reported higher risk of suicide attempt among adolescents associated with sexual minority status but few systematic reviews focused on the risk and protective factors. For that reason, it seems necessary to examine risk and protective factors of attempted suicide in sexual minority adolescents. Methods We conducted a systematic review of published studies on factors associated with suicide attempts in LGBT adolescents. 4 databases up to December 2020 were searched to find relevant studies. Results In addition to the factors usually found in general population (gender, ethnic minorities, childhood trauma, psychiatric symptoms, addictive behaviors), some factors have been independently associated with suicide attempt in LGBT population: early coming out, not acceptable by families, not satisfied with LGBT friendship, too few number of friends, physical abuse, sexual abuse and bullying. The protective factors of suicide attempt reported in LGBT population were feeling safety at school, teacher support, anti-bullying policy, and other adult’s support. Conclusion Effective preventive measures for suicide attempt among LGBT youth need to be developed and implemented. The impact of interventions targeting teacher responses to LGBT stigma, discussion of LGBT issues in class and reactions of family and friends to the coming out of LGBT youth should be further investigated.