Suicidal ideation among LGBTQ+ adults in Iceland: The roles of belongingness and perceived discrimination

Abstract

Suicide remains a major public health concern worldwide and occurs at much higher rates among sexual and gender minority populations compared to the general public. The present study examined suicidal ideation among LGBTQ+ adults in Iceland, focusing on the roles of belongingness as a protective factor against suicidal ideation, perceived discrimination as a contributor, and the differences in the rates of suicidal ideation between gender identities. A cross-sectional survey design was used, with a sample consisting of LGBTQ+ adults in Iceland (N=103). Participants completed self-report measures assessing suicidal ideation, perceived discrimination, and belongingness. The results indicated that higher levels of perceived discrimination were associated with increased suicidal ideation, whereas belongingness was negatively associated with suicidal ideation, suggesting a potential protective role. Furthermore, transgender and non-binary participants reported higher levels of suicidal ideation compared to cisgender queer participants. These findings underscore the elevated risk of suicidal ideation among LGBTQ+ individuals in Iceland and highlight the importance of strengthening belongingness and reducing discrimination as central factors for suicide prevention efforts.