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Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Youth Facts * It is estimated that in the U.S., a teen takes their own life every 5 hours because they are gay, bisexual, transgender, or lesbian, and cannot deal with the added stresses that society puts upon them. * Several studies have found that approximately 40% of homeless "street" teens self-identify as gay/lesbian yet there are relatively few resources specifically aimed at meeting their needs. * Homeless GLBT teens face increased risk for a variety of health and emotional problems. * GLB youth are two to three times more likely to attempt suicide than non-gay teens, according to a 1989 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services study. * The same study found that 30 percent of successful teen suicides are by gay or lesbian youths. * GLBT youth are attacked at alarmingly high rates nationwide. * Queer youth are more likely to be attacked physically. * Queer youth are at increased risk for drug/alcohol problems and dropping out of school. * An estimated 40% of street kids are lesbian or gay. These youth have either run away or been thrown out of their homes. Many get involved with prostitution and other abusive behaviors as a way of surviving. * Many bisexual, gay and lesbian youth drop out of school due to harassment or low self-esteem, and fear of "being found out." * Studies have found that more than 25% of gay and lesbian youth have severe drug and alcohol problems. * Those who believe they don't know someone who is gay are more likely than those who do to reject equal rights for, and equal treatment of, GLBT people. * Early exposure to diversity and sexuality issues helps to reduce prejudice and homophobia, including internalized homophobia which often leads to self-destructive behaviors. * Teenagers and young adults are among the leading perpetrators of anti-gay violence. SOURCE: Lamba.org Here are some websites with information for GBLT and GBLT Questioning Youth    
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