Study says marriage laws could be linked to decrease in LGBT suicides

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Tuesday, February 21, 2017
Low teen suicide rates in states with legal same-sex marriages
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University say fewer teenagers die by suicide in states where same-sex marriage is legal.

BALTIMORE (KGO) -- Researchers at Johns Hopkins University say fewer teenagers die by suicide in states where same-sex marriage is legal.

The biggest impact was on gay and bisexual teens, with the overall rate of suicide attempts dropping 4 percent.

The statistics found a small decrease in teens overall.

Researchers say the marriage measures may create more tolerance and less bullying.

The findings don't prove there's a connection between the laws and suicide attempts, but researchers say policymakers should be aware of the measures potential mental health benefits.