Risk Versus Resiliency: Addressing Depression in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth.

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth have unique risk factors that predispose them to depression at higher rates than their non-LGBT peers. Family rejection, bullying, and lack of societal acceptance can contribute to negative health outcomes. Additionally, youth with gender dysphoria may need or benefit from medical interventions. LGBT youth also have the same risk factors as non-LGBT youth, requiring clinicians to decipher risk factors associated with sexual and gender minority identity status, general risk factors, and relationships among them. Assessment of these risk factors and implementation of targeted interventions are important when treating depression in LGBT youth.