Suicide prevention in LGBTQA+ young people: Best practice guidelines for clinical and community service providers

These national guidelines, developed by The Kids Research Institute Australia, set out best practice for suicide prevention among LGBTQA+ young people across both clinical and community settings.

While the guidelines focus on suicide prevention, they are highly relevant to stigma reduction. They recognise that discrimination, exclusion, and non-affirming services increase distress and suicide risk, and that safe, inclusive environments are foundational to effective care.

What the guidelines cover

• Evidence-based approaches to suicide prevention for LGBTQA+ young people

• Guidance for both mainstream and specialist services

• Practical actions for clinical and community providers

• A strong focus on creating affirming and inclusive environments

Why this matters for stigma

• Stigma and discrimination are key drivers of mental health conditions and suicide risk

• Many LGBTQA+ young people face barriers to care due to non-inclusive services

• Affirming practice reduces harm and improves engagement and trust

• Inclusive environments are a prerequisite for effective suicide prevention

What we can learn

• Stigma-aware, inclusive practice is not optional in youth mental health care

• Mainstream services must be equipped to provide safe care, not just specialist services

• Structural and interpersonal stigma can undermine even well-intentioned interventions

• Clear guidelines help translate inclusion into everyday practice