Trump Administration’s Elimination of LGBTQ+ Crisis Support Line Sparks Nationwide Efforts to Fill Service Gap

On July 17th, specialized mental health support for LGBTQ+ youth through the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s dedicated line was discontinued. This decision followed the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s announcement in June that they would cease to “silo” services and instead focus on serving all help seekers.

The elimination of the “Press 3” option, which was answered by staff specifically trained to handle LGBTQ+ youth facing mental health issues, has prompted states such as California, Colorado, Illinois, and Nevada to take action. These states are implementing training programs, funding initiatives, and other measures to bridge the gap left by the termination of the dedicated line.

Advocates for at-risk youth argue that this move is a part of what they perceive as the Trump administration’s hostile stance towards the LGBTQ+ community. During his presidency, Donald Trump recognized only two sexes and condemned gender ideology, while omitting “T” for transgender and “Q” for queer or questioning in announcing the elimination of the 988 Press 3 option.

The discontinuation of the dedicated line has raised concerns among LGBTQ+ advocates due to the general 988 line’s call-takers not necessarily having the specialized training that the staff on the Press 3 line had. This could potentially hinder their ability to provide effective support to youth experiencing crises related to sexuality and gender.

According to The Trevor Project, an estimated 5.2 million LGBTQ+ people aged 13-24 in the U.S. face a disproportionately high rate of mental health risks, with about 39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considering attempting suicide each year.

Since October 2022, the Press 3 option received nearly 1.6 million calls, texts, or online chats, accounting for record monthly highs in May and June, and a peak in November 2024, the month of the election.

California is partnering with The Trevor Project to provide training on LGBTQ+ youth issues for crisis counselors answering calls to the general 988 crisis line. Colorado is increasing outreach to inform the public that the general 988 service remains available and welcomes calls from the LGBTQ+ community. Nevada plans to ensure all 988 crisis counselors receive training on working with LGBTQ+ callers, while Illinois is training existing call center counselors to support LGBTQ+ youth and promoting affirming messages and imagery about the 988 line in their outreach efforts.

Some states are exploring additional financial options to fill the service gap, and federal lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have spoken out against the closure of the LGBTQ+ 988 option and urged for its reinstatement.