‘Coming Out’ Linked to Increased Suicidality Risk for Sexual Minority Youth

A study examining the mental health implications for children disclosing their sexual minority identity, or “coming out,” found significant increases in suicidal intention, planning, and attempts around the time of disclosure. The study, titled, “Coming Out as a Period of Increased Vulnerability to Suicide Risk among Sexual Minorities,” published in the January 2026 Pediatrics (published online on Dec. 3), used data from the Generations study, which split youth into three cohorts: those born from 1956 through 1963 when homosexuality was broadly considered a mental disorder; those born from 1974 through 1981 where homosexuality was often discussed around the topic of the HIV/AIDS epidemic; and those born from 1990 through 1997 during a time with increased legal representation and the start of same-sex marriage equality laws. Researchers compiled data on what age each of the participants came out and, if they reported suicidal ideation, at what age. Data showed that disclosure to a family member or straight friend was associated with a 10% and 8% increase, respectively, in the likelihood of developing their first suicidal intentions. Additionally, disclosure to a family member or straight friend resulted in a 10% and 12% increase in the likelihood of developing a plan for suicide. Data on actual suicide attempts showed a 6% increase in likelihood, irrespective of whether the recipient of the disclosure was a family member or straight friend. Those least at risk were participants who came out as bisexual, with other members of the LGBTQ+ community facing greater suicide risks. The youngest group of teens who were raised in more socially and legally accepting times were shown to have the largest risk of suicide. The authors suggest that older cohorts expected more pushback when coming out than their younger peers did. Authors state that while coming out is often seen as becoming one's truest self, this period can be fraught with psychological vulnerability, especially among adolescents who are already at heightened risk, highlighting the pressing need for support for queer youth during these substantive life experiences. 

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