Differential Reports of Suicidal Ideation and Attempts of Questioning Adults Compared to Heterosexual, Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals

Many sexual minority individuals attempt suicide each year, but little is known about the suicidality of individuals who are questioning their sexual orientation. This study assessed suicidal ideation and attempts of questioning individuals compared with lesbian/gay, bisexual, and heterosexual individuals. This cross-sectional study enrolled participants (N = 2,841) from a community health center. Questioning (OR = 4.286, 95% CI [2.119-8.671]), lesbian/gay (OR = 3.024, 95% CI [2.351-3.890]), and bisexual (OR = 4.389, 95% CI [2.942-6.575]) individuals had significantly greater odds of considering suicide compared to heterosexuals. However, questioning individuals had non-significant odds of attempting suicide compared to heterosexuals. We discuss possible explanations for these findings.