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LGBTQ+ Youth Crisis Line Cut, Nonprofits Scramble to Fill the Void

August 13, 2025

The Trump administration has discontinued the LGBTQ+ youth-specific "Press 3" option within the U.S. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline as of July 17, removing specialized support for a population that experiences significantly higher suicide risk. According to The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers, with 39% having seriously considered suicide in 2024. While the Department of Health and Human Services attributes the closure to lack of Congressional funding, advocates argue that eliminating this dedicated resource puts additional strain on under-resourced nonprofits like the LGBT National Help Center and SMYAL, which are now facing increased call volumes.

Who is affected

  • LGBTQ+ youth under the age of 25
  • Crisis counselors trained specifically to address queer challenges
  • Under-resourced nonprofits like the LGBT National Help Center and SMYAL
  • Volunteers at these organizations who must handle increased call volumes
  • Parents and support people within LGBTQ+ youth support networks

What action is being taken

  • The LGBT National Help Center is working to train more volunteers to handle the increased call volume
  • SMYAL is offering mental health counseling, school-based programs, and resource referrals
  • SMYAL is hosting therapy groups directly in local schools and providing affirming after-school programs
  • SMYAL has partnered with a school in Prince George's County for weekly sessions
  • These organizations are creating support spaces and building trust with local LGBTQ+ youth

Why it matters

  • LGBTQ+ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their cisgender, heterosexual peers
  • 39% of LGBTQ+ youth have seriously considered attempting suicide in 2024
  • The shutdown sends a message that queer youth struggles are invisible
  • Without counselors who understand their experiences, many queer youth will feel isolated
  • The discontinuation places immense pressure on under-resourced nonprofits to fill the gap
  • Wait times and missed calls at remaining hotlines mean some people in crisis cannot get immediate help

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer