ERIC Number: ED460301
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1998-Mar
Pages: 28
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Isolated and Invisible: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Youth. Report for the South Fraser Regional Health Board, March 1998.
Shelby, Patricia
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered youth are largely unsupported by health service providers, educators, and parents. Problems facing these youth, especially feelings of being isolated and invisible, are far greater than expected. Discrimination and prejudice stemming from a lack of accurate information is the norm, although small pockets of support are growing in number. This report examines the health issues of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered youth in the South Fraser Region, the resources currently available to help them, and the strategies needed to improve their health. Health risks are significantly higher for them, and are largely attributed to the societal discrimination. Health risks include depression, suicide, verbal and physical assault, homelessness, school drop-out, substance abuse, and HIV infection. Individual health service providers, regional health boards, the Ministry for Children and Families, and the Ministry of Education must become involved in developing and implementing policies and strategies to improve the health of this group. Such strategies include educating health service providers, school staff, and the general public; promoting acceptance in schools and society in general; strengthening self-help networks; and conducting further research into health issues related to the needs of this group. (Contains 29 references.) (EMK)
Descriptors: Adjustment (to Environment), Adolescents, At Risk Persons, Bisexuality, Elementary Secondary Education, Foreign Countries, Health Education, Health Needs, Health Services, Homosexuality, Individual Development, Lesbianism, Mental Health, Policy, Young Adults, Youth Programs
Boundary Health Unit, 22033 Fraser Hwy., Langley, British Columbia, Canada V3A 4H3. Tel: 604-532-2300; Fax: 604-530-3750.
Publication Type: Opinion Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A