*** For any media coverage that mentions suicide, The Trevor Project encourages reporters to visit reportingonsuicide.org to ensure responsible reporting that relies on best practices from the field, encourages help-seeking behavior among readers, and avoids influencing behavior negatively by contributing to contagion.***
“We are deeply heartbroken to learn that Nex Benedict died by suicide after enduring extreme bullying and attacks at their school,” said Peggy Rajski, Founder and Interim CEO of The Trevor Project. “While this horrific loss has seized national attention, we also know that, tragically, it is not uncommon. LGBTQ+ young people are more than four times more likely to die by suicide than their peers – not because there is any predisposition in their identity, but because of the tremendous stressors, rejection, and antagonism that many of them face in society.”
“Nex’s death is a tragic reminder that we all have a role to play in reducing and eventually eradicating LGBTQ+ youth suicide; Research by The Trevor Project shows that having at least one accepting adult in an LGBTQ+ young person’s life significantly lowers their likelihood of attempting suicide. Whether a teacher, caregiver, neighbor or friend—supporting young people living in their truth is an affirming and life-saving act of allyship.”
Relevant data:
- LGBTQ+ students who reported being bullied had three times greater odds of attempting suicide in the past year
- The Trevor Project’s research found that nearly half (47%) of LGBTQ+ youth in Oklahoma reported that they’ve been physically threatened or harmed based on their sexual orientation or gender identity
- 48% of LGBTQ+ youth in Oklahoma seriously considered suicide in the past year, including 55% of transgender and nonbinary youth.
- 16% of LGBTQ+ youth in Oklahoma attempted suicide in the past year, including 20% of transgender and nonbinary youth.
- 90% of LGBTQ+ youth in Oklahoma reported that recent politics negatively impacted their well-being sometimes or a lot.
- 39% of LGBTQ+ youth in Oklahoma identified their home as an LGBTQ-affirming space.
- 31% of LGBTQ+ youth in Oklahoma identified their school as an LGBTQ-affirming space.
- The Trevor Project served more than 1,500 contacts from Oklahoma during fiscal year 2023 (8/1/23-7/31/23)
If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project’s trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help, or by texting START to 678678.
