Trump Administration Shuts Down 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline for LGBTQ+ Community

(CNN) – As of July 17, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has discontinued its specialized services tailored for LGBTQ+ youth, according to a statement from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. While all individuals reaching out to the 988 number will still receive support from crisis counselors for issues like suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, and mental health crises, the specific LGBTQ+ services will no longer operate. Initially launched in July 2022, the 988 Lifeline featured a separate option for LGBTQ+ individuals, allowing callers to connect with counselors trained in supporting this demographic. Since then, over 14.5 million contacts have been made, with around 1.3 million utilizing the LGBTQ+ services. The Press 3 option was intended as a pilot, funded by federal budgets aimed at enhancing mental health services. However, recent budget proposals now seek to eliminate these important resources. Democratic leaders, including Senator Tammy Baldwin, have voiced strong objections to this recent decision, emphasizing the need for continued support for vulnerable youth at risk of suicide.