Notes on Suicide and Suicidal Ideation Among Gays and Lesbians (IN: Keys to Caring: Assisting Your Gay and Lesbian Clients, edited by R J Kus)

Past research has largely ignored homosexuality as a factor in suicide. Caregivers should be extra aware of the key life issues, e.g. homophobia, familial dissaproval, & coming out, which may cause gay & lesbian clients to be more disposed to suicide. A caregiver’s embarrassment or homophobia should not be obstacles to appropriate treatment. In some cases a referral to counselling services with gay clientele may be preferable.