Are LGBT populations at a higher risk for suicidal behaviors in Australia? Research findings and implications

Résumé

The aim of this article is to review the Australian literature about suicidality in minority sexual identity and/or behavior groups in order to determine the evidence base for their reported higher vulnerability to suicidal behaviors than heterosexual and non-transgendered individuals in the Australian context, as well as to identify the factors which are predictive of suicidal behaviors in these groups in Australia. A literature search for all available years (until the end of 2012) was conducted using the databases Scopus, Medline, and Proquest for articles published in English in peer-reviewed academic journals. All peer-reviewed publications that provided empirical evidence for prevalence and predictive factors of suicidal behaviors among LGBTI individuals (or a subset thereof) in Australia were included. Reference lists were also scrutinized to identify "gray" literature for inclusion. The results revealed that there is only limited research from Australia. Nevertheless, although no population-based studies have been carried out, research indicates that sexual minorities are indeed at a higher risk for suicidal behaviors. In order to further the understanding of suicidal behaviors and potential prevention among LGBT groups in the Australia, further research is needed, particularly on fatal suicidal behaviors. AUSTRALIE OCÉANIE GENRE HOMME FEMME IDÉATION TENTATIVE SUICIDE-COMPLÉTÉ AUTO-MUTILATION NON-SUICIDAIRE HOMOSEXUALITÉ IDENTITÉ-SEXUELLE TRANSEXUALISME REVUE-LITTÉRATURE BULLYING VIOLENCE MARGINALISATION