Although there have been a number of advances toward acceptance of  lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning individuals, it is still not easy for LGBTQ youth. In addition to struggling with their own identity, many young people face discrimination and bullying. In its most recent surveyof LGBTQ youth, the Trevor Project found that 40% of respondents said they have seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. The number is even higher for transgender and nonbinary youth. This is a staggering number and points to a mental health crisis that must be addressed.
 
Hurdles to Overcome
 
Even with advancements in legislation, policy, and culture, the LGBTQ community still has hurdles to overcome. LGBTQ youth still face discrimination and rejection from their families and the community at large. Add to that the hateful rhetoric that has become increasingly pervasive in recent years, and there is a recipe for disaster. Transgender and nonbinary (people who do not identify as male or female) youth face even greater discrimination and misunderstanding. As a result, LGBTQ youth are more than four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers.
 
Social media seems to be a mixed bag when it comes to the feelings of rejection for LGBTQ youth. They have become more exposed to hateful rhetoric and rejecting comments. However, many LGBTQ young people feel alone, and being able to make a helpful connection through social media can go a long way toward making someone feel accepted.  
 
Addressing the Issue
 
The best way to address the issue of mental health and LGBTQ youth is to provide adequate treatment for these young people. Mental health professionals who specialize in LGBTQ issues are necessary to provide a safe place where young people can feel free to express themselves and their feelings. Providing specialized training to mental health professionals can make this a reality. In addition, LGBTQ community centers can help provide affirming messages of acceptance to young people, which can help change their outlook.
 
If you or someone you know is feeling helpless or suicidal, the Trevor Project has a confidential suicide hotline. The Trevor Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7836. Online counseling is also available at thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now/.
 
If you or a loved one has a mental disability and has been arrested or convicted of a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Elizabeth Kelley specializes in representing individuals with mental disabilities. To schedule a consultation call (509) 991-7058.

A traumatic brain injury can be life-changing for sufferers in a number of different ways. It can change the way they function and behave, and it can even change their personality. But can traumatic brain injury lead someone to commit a violent crime? Some studies show this may be the case.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

 A traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically results from a violent jolt or blow to the head. An object, like a bullet, penetrating the skull and brain tissue can also result in a TBI. A mild TBI may affect a person's brain cells temporarily. A more serious TBI can result in torn tissue, bruising, bleeding, and other physical damage to the brain. A serious TBI can result in long-term complications. An estimated 1.7 million people annually sustain a TBI. 

Linked to Crime?

The link between TBI and violent crime is a controversial subject that we are still struggling to understand. A number of studies have found a link between TBI and violence. A 2009 study found an increase in aggression among people who suffered a TBI. This aggression was believed to be linked to a change in psychosocial functioning and changes in personality. Another study found that young people who suffered a recent head injury were more likely to report violent behavior. 

Aggressive behavior associated with TBI includes explosive outbursts that can be set off with minimal provocation. These outbursts can range in severity for irritability to property damage or assaults on others. Cognitive and behavioral problems associated with TBI can result in aggressive behavior that leads to violence. In addition, a lack of insight and judgment can also lead to behavior in which the person would never have engaged if they did not suffer from a TBI. In fact, these same conditions can also make those with TBIs more likely to be victims of violent crime which can perpetuate the cycle. Violence as both a cause and consequence of TBI is a serious problem that must be addressed.

 If you or a loved one has a mental disability and has been arrested or convicted of a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Elizabeth Kelley specializes in representing individuals with mental disabilities. To schedule a consultation call (509) 991-7058.