Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of suicide-related outcomes in a nationally representative sample of young adults

This study assessed the prevalence and demographic differences in suicide-related outcomes with a focus on sexual and gender minority (SGM) young adults. Data are from a 2021 nationally representative survey of young adults ages 18–29 (N = 1077). Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with suicidal ideation, suicidal behavior, and self-harming behavior adjusting for U.S. region, urbanicity, employment status, income, education, and other factors. Overall, transgender/nonbinary young adults had substantially higher rates of all suicide-related outcomes compared to cisgender men and cisgender women. Sexual minority adults had increased odds for all suicide-related outcomes, even after controlling for region, urbanicity, and other factors. SGM young adults therefore remain at significantly higher risk of a range of suicide-related outcomes even after adjusting for demographic and regional factors. Culturally responsive suicide prevention strategies are needed to support SGM young adults.