Holy hECK
NO ALL OF YOU YOU BETTER READ THIS
I realize it’s been a rough time in the transgender community. Two kids are dead (Leelah Alcorn, 17, and Zander Mahaffey, 15) and one is in critical condition (Damien Shrum, 13, holy shit) after attempting suicide due to ignorant and abusive parents.
I know the news have already been spreading through Tumblr like wildfire, and it’s good that we’re still making noise and staying alert to try and prevent these tragedies, but I’ve also noticed that a lot of people, esp. other trans teens are really deeply upset and hurt over this string of suicides. These could be kids who are probably facing the same or similar situations at home, kids who have seriously thought about offing themselves at least once.
These kinds of situations are not rare: they’re called cluster suicides, and they’re one of the biggest risks to minority teens, especially now with the great accessibility to social media. While we continue to spread awareness about those we’ve lost, it’s equally crucial to make aware all the resources available to trans kids, abused kids, and anyone else facing a crisis.
First off the bat, there’s the Trevor Project, a non-profit LGBT lifeline. They’re available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386, or through online chat from 3-9 PM ET, or through text on Friday nights from 4-8 PM ET.
Another one I’d greatly recommend is Reachout.com, which has loads of helpful articles and personal stories on a variety of life issues, plus a comprehensive listing of lifelines and support websites, including the general and all-inclusive Your Life Your Voice (1-800-448-3000).
To everyone: if you ever feel like you’re at the end of your rope, please don’t think letting go is the right solution to the problems you’re facing. Change might be slow, but we’re making it, and one way or another, we’re going to pull through in the long run. You don’t have to be a martyr for any cause, because you do so much justice just being alive right now.
People out here need you, and certainly care about you. Please be safe.
Also my inbox is open. I may not be prompt, but I will be understanding.