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Suicide - A Big Risk Among Bullied Gays and Lesbians

by Savitha C Muppala on Feb 4 2011 12:08 AM

 Suicide - A Big Risk Among Bullied  Gays and Lesbians
Gays and lesbians who are bullied are at increased risk of suicides due to disruptions in their hormones and associated cardiovascular problems, a recent insight by Concordia University has revealed.
This is the first study which proves the biological connection between bullying and its adverse effects on psychological health.  

"This shows that homophobia is bad for your health," said the study's author, Michael Benibgui.

Disruptions in cortisol output were evident in victims. Cortisol is a hormone released in the brain in response to stress. Usually,levels of cortisol are high in the mornings and low in the evenings, but for the victims of homophobia, bullying leads to elevated levels of cortisol throughout the day. Disruptions in cortisol can cause physical ailments.

Other research has also showed that suicide rates are 14 times higher among homosexuals.

The study also revealed that support from family, peers and parents can counter the bad effects of bullying, and make a huge difference in the manner by which victims handled bullying.



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Source-Medindia


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