Los Angeles, CA (January 04, 2012) – Today marks a milestone in the health of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) LGBT Research Coordinating Committee released a statement to advance the health of this priority community through improved research in a number of areas, including: depression, suicide, LGBT youth, and transgender and intersex-specific health needs. Abbe Land, Executive Director & CEO of The Trevor Project, which operates crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBT and questioning youth nationwide, released the following statement about this groundbreaking health report:

 

“The Trevor Project is encouraged to learn that the National Institutes of Health is taking essential steps towards addressing the distressing gaps in LGBT health research. We are especially thankful that the LGBT Research Coordinating Committee of the NIH has recognized and identified the strong need for additional research concerning depression, suicide, and youth in the LGBT community. By further understanding the facts about these critical topics, we can help every young person find a brighter tomorrow.”

 

The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning young people under 24. Every day, The Trevor Project saves young lives through its free and confidential lifeline and instant messaging services, in-school workshops, educational materials, online resources and advocacy. Honored by the White House as a Champion of Change, The Trevor Project is a leader and innovator in suicide prevention. Learn more at TheTrevorProject.org.

 

MEDIA CONTACT: Laura McGinnis (laura.mcginnis@thetrevorproject.org;  323.423.7405 )