(PS8-34) Disparities in Suicidal Ideation and Plans and Unmet Need for Mental Health Services Between Heterosexual and Sexual Minority Adults in the US

Abstract Text: Suicidal ideation and plans impact about 10.6 million and 3.1 million adults annually, respectively, across the United States, with sexual minority individuals experiencing disproportionately higher rates. Unmet mental health service needs are a known risk factor of suicidal ideation, plans, and attempts; and sexual minority individuals often face additional barriers to care, including stigma and practitioner cultural competency. Despite these barriers, sexual minority individuals seek and utilize mental health services at higher rates than their heterosexual peers. Our study examines the interactions between unmet mental health needs and sexual orientation in relation to past year suicidal ideation and plans. Using the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, we analyzed a nationally representative analytic sample of approximately 30,450 respondents. We applied logistic regressions accounting for the complex survey design. Results indicated that sexual minority status and unmet need were independently associated with higher odds of past year suicidal ideation and planning. Moreover, among sexual minority adults, unmet needs were linked to a smaller increase in suicidal ideation compared to heterosexual adults. Similarly, for suicidal planning, the effect of unmet need was attenuated among sexual minority adults, except for those who were unsure of their sexual orientation, compared to heterosexual adults. These findings suggest that factors beyond unmet mental health needs may contribute to suicidal ideation and planning among sexual minority individuals. By highlighting the complex interplay between sexual orientation and unmet mental health needs, this study underscores the importance of tailored interventions and policies that address the unique mental health challenges faced by sexual minority populations.