Self-esteem is a huge aspect to maintain for anyone, one thing most people don’t realise is the knocks that most LGBTQ+ people face. A glaring stare while holding hands with a boy, someone shaking their head at you, or having homophobic slurs screamed at you across a busy street are all things I’ve personally experienced, and I’m aware I’ve most likely had it easy compared to most. On nights out (whilst at university, I might add) I’ve faced verbal abuse for having my nails painted, for what I wear or the way I dance, I’ve had random people video me against my consent for kissing a boy, among other things. I know of other people who on nights out have had bricks hauled at them for wearing make-up, even being knocked out with one punch simply for kissing a boy. These are all things which can make it glaringly apparent as to why members of the LGBTQ+ community are over twice as likely to both self-harm or commit suicide.

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In August just this year, a nine-year-old boy took his own life after being bullied at school for being gay. Jamel Myles from Colorado lasted four days at school before the bullying all became too much, leading him to commit suicide. The boy of nine said he was going to come out at school because he was “proud of who I am”. This bravery at such a young age led to his fellow pupils telling him he should kill himself because of his sexuality. Unfortunately, I don’t have an instant solution to these problems, but more needs to be done to challenge viewpoints and prevent instances like these. Education and acceptance are crucial areas we need to concentrate on, and we need to be standing up for each other more. Question what’s wrong and show support to those in need, most of us can do more to help others. It’s critical that we lobby for more education in schools, more freedom and rights, and challenge those who are aiding the increase in mental health problems. A change can be made, and suicide can be reduced.