Since its inception in 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has been a vital resource, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. Managed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA), this service provided a dedicated avenue for queer individuals facing crises. By pressing 3 on their phones or entering “PRIDE” in a chat, users could connect with counselors specially trained to comprehend the specific challenges of LGBTQ+ lives. However, a recent announcement from SAMHSA stated that the ‘Press 3’ option will be discontinued starting July 17.
This decision has raised alarms, particularly because it notably excludes the “T” for transgender individuals from its messaging, which many view as an instance of wider marginalization. SAMHSA asserts that the intent behind this change is to guarantee that everyone seeking assistance, including those who previously used the ‘Press 3’ option, will continue to access necessary care. Nonetheless, this prompts significant concerns regarding the efficacy of a generalized approach for those already enduring elevated rates of mental health challenges.
Statistics highlight the need for tailored services: LGBTQ+ youth are over four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers, with this group already grappling with disturbingly high levels of mental health crises. Data from The Trevor Project (TTP), a non-profit dedicated to preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth, indicates that approximately 1.8 million LGBTQ+ individuals aged 13-24 in the U.S. seriously contemplate suicide each year. Alarmingly, at least one young person attempts suicide every 45 seconds. Their 2023 National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People revealed that 41% of LGBTQ+ youth considered suicide in the past year, with even higher rates among transgender and nonbinary individuals.
Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, expressed his dismay, stating, “This is devastating, to say the least. Suicide prevention is about people, not politics.” For many, the elimination of a specialized resource that effectively aided a high-risk group appears deeply troubling. This decision arrives during Pride Month—a time meant to celebrate visibility and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community—while also seemingly diminishing the significance of transgender individuals by excluding the “T” from official messages. Black reiterated, “Transgender people can never, and will never, be erased.”
In light of this troubling announcement, The Trevor Project advocates for supporters to take action against the decision. They have established a platform for individuals to sign a petition and donate at TheTrevorProject.org/ActNow, calling on Congress to reevaluate this major policy alteration.
For LGBTQ+ youth grappling with this distressing news, Black’s message resonates: “You are worthy, you are loved, and you belong—despite this heartbreaking news.” TTP’s crisis counselors are on call 24/7, prepared to provide guidance and navigate feelings of distress.
If you or someone you know needs support, remember that trained crisis counselors from The Trevor Project are merely a phone call away at 1-866-488-7386. You can also chat with them at TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help or text START to 678678. You are not alone, and help is always available.
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