Predictors of suicide ideation and HIV risk among LGBT Midlanders in Nebraska and western Iowa

Background: Research finds determinants of high levels of suicide behaviors in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations to be similar to those for HIV risk. The aim of this investigation is to outline possible predictors of considering suicide among LGBT individuals living in a Midwestern, low-resource predominantly rural state.

Method: An online survey was developed using a community-based participatory research approach. Participants (N=525) were recruited via advertisements, press releases, and e-mail. Demographics, psychosocial resources, and stressors were used to examine the likelihood of suicidal ideation. Descriptive statistics, correlations and hierarchical linear regression were run in PASW 18.0.

Results: Almost half (n=260, 49.6%) of participants had seriously considered suicide at some point in their lives. Women and transgender respondents were more likely to have seriously considered suicide (41% and 110%, respectively). Higher scores on the CES-Depression scale also predicted suicidal ideation. Individuals with greater levels of perceived discrimination were more likely to experience suicidal ideation. Having an income <$5,000 and low levels of being out about their sexual orientation/gender identity were also predictors of suicidal ideation, but no longer significant after the inclusion of resource and stress variables.

Conclusions: Suicide ideation is a serious concern for the health of LGBT populations in the Midwest. Known correlates between depression, suicide, and HIV testing, diagnosis, and risk taking behaviors makes this issue of great importance among LGBT populations. Public health practitioners who engage in HIV or suicide outreach programs may want to consider joint efforts for LGBT populations.