Overview

• The federal 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline discontinued its “press 3” option for LGBTQ+ youth on July 17 when Congress’s 2025 funding lapsed.
• SAMHSA officials said all callers still receive culturally competent crisis counseling but will no longer be routed to specialists for LGBTQ+ needs.
• Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration has partnered with The Trevor Project to train crisis counselors and operate a dedicated state helpline at 1-866-488-7386.
• Since its 2022 launch, the LGBTQ+ option handled over 1.3 million contacts from young people facing discrimination-related mental health crises.
• Advocates warn the removal could heighten suicide risk for LGBTQ+ youth, with 39% having seriously considered self-harm and half unable to access mental health care last year.