Preventing Suicide: NAMI NH Director Urges Action Against Discriminatory Legislation
Susan Stearns, the Executive Director of NAMI New Hampshire, has written a compelling letter to the editor, highlighting the urgent need to address discriminatory legislation that threatens the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth in New Hampshire.
Stearns begins by drawing attention to the numerous bills filed across the country aimed at limiting the ability of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly young people, to live authentically. She points out that in New Hampshire, these legislative attempts manifest in various forms, including restrictions on access to facilities, bans on trans youth participation in sports, and limitations on expression in schools.
Her letter cites Dr. Christine Crawford, associate medical director of NAMI National, who emphasized in a keynote address at a NAMI NH annual conference that LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their straight counterparts. Stearns underscores the gravity of this statistic by highlighting that suicide is the leading cause of death for children ages 10 to 14 in New Hampshire and the second leading cause for those aged 15 to 34.
"Lives are at stake," says Dr. Crawford, underscoring the collective responsibility to address the mental health needs of all young people and eradicate discrimination in society.
Stearns then shares a personal account of her own experience as a parent, recounting the aftermath of her nonbinary child's suicide attempt. The emotional toll of the experience and the constant fear for her child's safety profoundly impacted her, highlighting the devastating consequences of inadequate support for mental health.
She emphasizes the importance of protecting all children and calls for collaborative efforts to ensure every child in New Hampshire feels valued for their authentic self. Stearns urges the state to reject discriminatory legislation and instead focus on policies that promote mental wellness and prevent youth suicide.
Stearns calls upon the community to unite in support of LGBTQ+ youth and commit to creating an inclusive and accepting environment for all. She asserts that it is time for New Hampshire to rise to the occasion and prioritize the well-being of its children and young adults at risk to suicide.
The letter serves as a reminder of the critical importance of advocacy and collective action in safeguarding the mental health and rights of LGBTQ+ youth in New Hampshire and beyond who are at risk to suicide.