A new study has revealed that nearly a third of trans and non-binary young people have attempted suicide in the last 12 months.

The peer-reviewed study, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, includes data from 25,000 queer young people between the ages of 13 and 24. 

According to the study, 78 per cent of trans and non-binary youth have experienced discrimination because of their gender identity. When asked about their experiences over the past 12 months, 30 per cent said they have been physically threatened or harmed.

83 per cent reported feeling depressed, while 54 per cent have seriously considered suicide. 29 per cent have attempted suicide, which is five times more than non-LGBTQ+ youth (according to an annual figure recorded separately by the CDC as five per cent).

The survey also shows that trans and non-binary young people are still twice as likely to experience depression and consider or attempt suicide, compared to their cisgender LGB+ peers. Trans males are the the highest at-risk group, with 35 per cent having attempted suicide in the past 12 months.

“These upsetting figures show what the reality of life is like for young trans people. We know that half (51 per cent) of trans pupils are bullied in school because they are trans, as well as having to navigate a world where transphobia is everywhere – online, in the media and in the streets,” Laura Russell, head of policy at Stonewall, told Dazed.

“Schools that are proactive about tackling transphobic bullying – and bullying of all kinds – and creating safe environments for their students can make an enormous difference,” she added. “But we all have a part to play in making society more accepting. Now more than ever, it is time for everyone who cares about equality to come together as a united community to ensure everyone is free to be themselves.”

If you are in the UK and are having suicidal thoughts, or suffering from anxiety or depression, you can contact Samaritans on 116 123. If you’re in the US, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255