Safe Schools for LGBTQ+ Youth: A Call for Change!

Safe Schools for LGBTQ+ Youth: A Call for Change!

On June 30, 2025, an online lecture on the challenges and needs of LGBTQ+ young people in everyday school life took place as part of the International Week at the University of Vechta. The renowned speaker, Prof. Dr. In her presentation, Laura Baams from the University of Groningen highlighted the critical role of schools in promoting well-being and protecting against discrimination. The reason for the lecture was Pride Month, which was celebrated in June and draws attention to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people. Mynewsdesk reports that Queer children and young people often suffer from bullying, exclusion and psychological stress and often have suicidal thoughts.

Prof. Dr. Baams is a professor of education and educational sciences and leads research projects that focus on school safety and mental health of LGBTQ+ youth. Her commitment has been recognized through numerous awards, most recently she received the NWO Vidi Grant. The lecture was given by Prof. Dr. Christopher Osterhaus, head of the PROUD research project, organized. This project examines the causes and protective factors of homophobic and transphobic bullying in German secondary schools, with the aim of making experiences of discrimination visible and deriving measures for a more inclusive school environment.

Role of schools in suicide prevention

The role of schools as a safe place and support network is critical, especially given the alarming statistics on suicide attempts among LGBTQ+ youth. According to a recent study, 23% of gay, lesbian and bisexual youth suffer from suicidal thoughts, compared to 5.4% of their heterosexual peers. For transgender people the rate is as high as 40%. Research shows that LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors due to unique stressors such as rejection from parents and peers and experiences of sexual discrimination.

A positive school climate in which students experience connection and support is highlighted as a protective factor against suicidal ideation. Inclusion and the presence of gender and sexuality alliances (GSAs) in schools can help reduce bullying and promote psychological well-being. Studies show that schools that implement inclusive anti-bullying policies have significantly lower suicide risks among LGBTQ+ youth. This highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention that takes into account various school factors and supportive measures.

Research gaps and future approaches

Despite advances in knowledge, many aspects are still insufficiently researched. In particular there is a lack of evidence-based suicide prevention approaches specifically tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ youth. A recent analysis highlights the need to develop intersectional and multisectoral models of suicide prevention to better reflect different experiences and risks.

The planned model by Russell and Fish (2016) represents a promising step in this direction. It describes access options for suicide prevention that should include universal, selective and indicated measures. Integrating diverse dimensions such as race, socioeconomic status, and gender identity is critical to implementing a holistic strategy to promote the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth.

The recorded lecture by Prof. Dr. Baams is available to university members at www.linktr.ee/psychologie.macht.schule. If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Christopher Osterhaus is available via email at christopher.osterhaus@uni-vechta.de.