988 Suicide Lifeline Ends LGBTQ+ Youth Option

Specialized “Press 3” support discontinued after serving 1.2 million.

A specialized support option for LGBTQ+ youth on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is ending, raising concerns about tailored support for a vulnerable population. The “Press 3 option” will be discontinued beginning July 17.

Key Changes to 988 Services

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) said that while the dedicated LGBTQ+ line will cease, all callers will still connect with trained crisis counselors. The “Press 3 option” began as a pilot program in fiscal year 2022 and received $33 million in funding for fiscal year 2024.

Since its launch, the Press 3 option has reportedly assisted more than 1.2 million individuals. SAMHSA has provided a statement regarding the change: SAMHSA Statement on 988 Press 3 Option

Local Resources Remain Available

Local 988 providers, such as the Johnson County Mental Health Center in Kansas, affirm their crisis counselors are available 24/7. Counselors are prepared to address the needs of diverse populations, which includes the LGBTQ+ community.

Mental health conditions affect LGBTQ+ adults at a higher rate, with 3.9 million reporting a mental illness each year (Mental Health America).

Contacting the Lifeline

Individuals seeking support can call or text 988, or utilize the chat function at 988lifeline.org to connect with help.

Additional information about the Lifeline’s performance metrics is available from SAMHSA: Lifeline Performance Metrics

More details can be found at KCTV 5: Local resources remain after the discontinuation of a LGBTQ+ help line option