The recent discontinuation of the dedicated LGBTQ+ youth support line within the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has prompted urgent actions across multiple states. On July 17, the specialized ‘Press 3’ option, which directed callers to staff trained specifically to assist LGBTQ+ youth facing mental health crises, was abruptly eliminated. This change followed a broader federal shift announced by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), aimed at integrating services rather than maintaining siloed options, ostensibly to serve all help seekers more inclusively. However, critics argue that this move has significantly impacted vulnerable populations, especially given the rising mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth.
