Suicide prevention and two-spirited people

Summary: Suicide rates among two-spirited, gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered First Nations are not known, but the rates of related risk factors in these groups indicate that the suicide risk is greater than among heterosexual First Nations. Homophobia, isolation and rejection increase the risk of suicide. An individual's risk can be decreased if he/she is connected to his/her culture and traditions in a way that recognizes the impacts of colonization. First Nations communities can support two-spirited people by providing safe spaces that include and respect them, by standing up for them, and by speaking out about the discrimination they experience. The term two-spirit is used in this resource because it reflects the importance of First Nations culture as well as sex and gender orientation and diversity. However, it is important to respect that individuals may prefer to identify with other terms to reflect their sexual orientation, sex and gender identity, experiences, or preferences.