In their 2025 article, "An Overlooked Explanation for Increasing Suicidality: LGBQ Stressors Felt by More Students," published in Educational Researcher, Joseph R. Cimpian and Mollie T. McQuillan examine the rising rates of suicidality among high school girls, proposing that an increase in the number of girls identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or questioning (LGBQ) may be a contributing factor. Their analysis utilizes data from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) spanning 2015 to 2021.

Key Findings:

1. Increase in LGBQ Identification Among Females: The study reveals a significant rise in the proportion of high school girls identifying as LGBQ, escalating from 15% in 2015 to 34% in 2021. This trend suggests that more female students are embracing LGBQ identities during their high school years.

2. Stable Yet Elevated Suicidality Rates: While LGBQ females consistently report higher rates of suicidality compared to their heterosexual peers, the study notes that these rates have remained stable within both groups over the examined period. However, the overall increase in the number of LGBQ-identifying females contributes to a higher aggregate of reported suicidality among high school girls.

3. Comparative Trends Among Males: In contrast, the data indicates smaller changes in both LGBQ identification and suicidality rates among male students, suggesting that the observed trends are more pronounced among females.

Implications for Educators:

The findings underscore the critical need for educational institutions to implement comprehensive support systems tailored to the unique challenges faced by LGBQ students. Given the heightened vulnerability to mental health issues within this demographic, schools should consider the following strategies:

• Inclusive Policies: Develop and enforce anti-discrimination and anti-bullying policies that explicitly protect LGBQ students, fostering a safe and affirming school environment.

• Mental Health Resources: Provide accessible mental health services, including counseling and support groups, that address the specific needs of LGBQ students.

• Professional Development: Offer training for educators and staff to increase awareness and understanding of LGBQ issues, enabling them to support students effectively.

• Student Organizations: Encourage the formation of student-led groups, such as Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs), to promote peer support and advocacy.

By proactively addressing the mental health needs of LGBQ students, educators can play a pivotal role in mitigating suicidality and fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

For a comprehensive understanding of the study and its findings, readers are encouraged to consult the original article:

Cimpian, J. R., & McQuillan, M. T. (2025). An Overlooked Explanation for Increasing Suicidality: LGBQ Stressors Felt by More Students. Educational Researcher, 54(1), 56-60. https://doi.org/10.3102/0013189X241305329