For America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth, adolescence is a trying time and, for some, an unhappy experience, according to a recent report by the Human Rights Campaign, an organization that advocates for equality for LGBT Americans.
Many of America's LGBT teens face harassment, social ostracism, and discrimination, according to the report, which surveyed 10,000 LGBT youth ages 13-17.
Overall, LGBT teens were less likely to be happy than their straight counterparts, according to the report. Sixty-seven percent of straight teens said they were happy; only 37 percent of their LGBT counterparts said the same. They were more likely than their straight counterparts to experiment with drugs and alcohol and have feelings of isolation from family and their communities.
When LGBT teens were asked about the most important issues they face, 26 percent mentioned families that didn't accept their orientation or identity, 21 percent reported bullying, and 18 percent noted fear of being out and open with others.
Young people who were not LGBT listed as their top concerns classes and grades, getting into college, and finances.
Despite their struggles, LBGT youth were optimistic for the future: 77 percent said that they believe things will get better. Eighty-three percent said that they believe they will be happy eventually.