Prevalence of Loneliness and Suicidality among Transgender in Jharkhand: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: In India, gender and sexual minorities, such as transgender experience consistent social exclusion, which creates a heightened risk for negative psychological issues. The transgender community encounters profound marginalization due to their different gender identity, low economic growth, and barriers to accessing affirming healthcare facilities and social services. Objective: This study aimed to assess the levels of loneliness and suicidality among transgender. Method: A sample of 150 transgender from five districts of Jharkhand was obtained. The Perceived Loneliness Scale and Suicide Risk Eleven Scale were utilised to collect data. Descriptive statistics (mean and SD) were used to summarize the loneliness and suicidality scores. In this study, a t-test was used to examine significant differences between urban and rural transgender in terms of loneliness and suicidality scores. A simple linear regression was also used to assess the association between loneliness and suicidality. Results: The results found a relationship between loneliness and suicidality. In addition, 43%(n=65) of the sample reported having attempted suicide at least once and more than once in their lives, and 34% (n=51) reflected suicidal thoughts or attitudes. Conclusion: Transgender experienced an average level of loneliness and higher levels of suicidality.