plowunited.net – The Trump administration has announced it will shut down the specialized LGBTQ+ youth support option on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Known as “Option 3,” this service has connected more than 1.3 million LGBTQ+ young people with trained crisis counselors since its introduction. The decision, announced by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), states that beginning July 17, the lifeline will no longer offer a dedicated option for LGB+ youth. Instead, SAMHSA says all callers, regardless of identity, will be served by the same general hotline staff. The agency maintains that culturally competent, compassionate care will remain available. However, critics argue that removing a tailored service for a high-risk group during a time of rising mental health concerns sends a harmful message.
Mental Health Advocates Warn of Increased Risk for LGBTQ+ Youth
Mental health organizations and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have strongly criticized the decision. Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, called the change “devastating,” noting that it removes an evidence-based, bipartisan service that has saved lives. Black emphasized that LGBTQ+ youth are among the most vulnerable populations when it comes to suicide risk. He also pointed out that the removal comes during Pride Month, which he described as “callous timing.” According to Black, ending Option 3 strips away a safe, affirming resource that many young people have relied on during moments of deep crisis. With suicide rates disproportionately high among LGBTQ+ youth, critics warn this decision could increase mental health risks and isolate those most in need of help.
Uncertainty Remains Over Staffing and Service Transition
As of now, it is unclear what will happen to the counselors who worked specifically on the Option 3 hotline. SAMHSA has not confirmed whether these staff members will be reassigned to the general 988 line or laid off. The change comes amid larger structural shifts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Which plans to consolidate SAMHSA functions into a new entity called the Administration for a Healthy America. SAMHSA has also experienced staff reductions in recent months, some of which affected the 988 team. Without clear information on staffing. Some mental health professionals worry about a potential drop in service quality or longer wait times for callers needing urgent help.
Lawmakers Condemn Removal of LGBTQ+ Support Line
Senator Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat from Wisconsin and the author of the legislation that created the 988 hotline, condemned the move. She called the shutdown “cruel” and said it sends a harmful message to LGBTQ+ youth that they do not matter. Baldwin argued that the decision undermines years of progress in mental health care and inclusion. She further noted that the announcement’s omission of the “T” in LGBTQ+ was deeply concerning and disrespectful to transgender individuals. The Senator stressed that mental health resources should be expanded, not cut, especially for at-risk communities during national awareness periods like Pride Month.
988 Hotline Saw 40% Increase in Use Since Launch
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which launched in 2022. Quickly established itself as a vital resource for Americans facing mental health emergencies. Call volume rose by 40% within months, showing the urgent need for accessible, 24/7 support. The program introduced Option 3 to serve LGBTQ+ youth in crisis. Offering trained counselors who understood the unique challenges queer and trans youth face. This tailored approach built trust and delivered life-saving care. Now, with the administration removing Option 3. Advocates warn that fewer LGBTQ+ individuals may seek help, fearing a loss of understanding and safe support.
