Archive · 19 Jun 2025
Trump Admin. Halts LGBTQ Youth Suicide Hotline; Critics Condemn
The government is stopping a special suicide help line for LGBTQ teens.
This line, called 'Press 3', let young people talk to counselors who understand their problems.
It started under the Biden administration but had support from both parties.
Now, the government wants to put everyone together in one group of counselors instead.
Some people are upset because LGBTQ teens have more suicide risk, and they think this change might be dangerous.
The government says all callers will still get good care, but critics disagree, especially as it occurs during Pride Month.
Trump administration plans to end dedicated LGBTQ youth suicide prevention services via the 988 Lifeline.
The 'Press 3' option, providing LGBTQ youth support, will be terminated on July 17.
The service was launched as a pilot program in 2022 under the Biden administration, with initial bipartisan support.
SAMHSA stated it will integrate LGBTQ youth services into a general pool of crisis counselors.
Advocates argue that eliminating tailored services puts at-risk lives, citing higher LGBTQ youth suicide rates.
- Who
- The Trump administration, SAMHSA, and LGBTQ youth.
- What
- The Trump administration plans to end the dedicated LGBTQ youth suicide prevention services offered through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- When
- The shutdown is set to take effect on July 17.
- Where
- Through the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Why
- SAMHSA is integrating all callers into a general pool of crisis counselors.
Advocates
Trump Administration
Service Provision
Advocates
The elimination of the dedicated service will put LGBTQ youth, who face higher suicide rates, at greater risk.
Trump Administration
SAMHSA's view is that all callers will receive appropriate care regardless of their background.
Impact & Justification
Advocates
The decision is 'cruel and dangerous,' especially during Pride Month.
Trump Administration
The administration's stated reason involves not funding a service that encourages radical gender ideology without parental consent.
- Service Being Terminated
- LGBTQ youth suicide prevention services, 'Press 3' option
- Effective Date
- July 17
- Previous Operator
- The Trevor Project (initially)
- Current Operator
- LGBTQ Youth Subnetwork
- Administration Action
- Elimination of funding for LGBTQ youth-specific services within the 988 Lifeline