LGBTQ+ youth lost access to a specialized suicide and crisis lifeline today. It launched three years ago and was available through 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
The “press 3” lifeline provided tailored support for LGBTQ+ youth. Its termination comes after a federal announcement in June.
National data from the Youth Risk Behavior System, a program conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shows LGBTQ+ youth are about four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers.
LGBTQ+ advocates have long stated that the increased risk of suicide is due to stigma and mistreatment.
The program had served more than 1.3 million LGBTQ+ young people across the country since its inception, according to the Trevor Project, which was one of the providers that fielded calls.
The lifeline has been a critical resource for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, said Michele Roberts, assistant secretary for prevention and community health at Washington State’s Department of Health.
In Washington state, the lifeline that serves LGBTQ+ youth receives an average of 830 calls, 270 texts and 224 chats each month, according to the state’s Department of Health.
“We’re deeply concerned about the loss of this vital service,” Roberts said in a press release. “... While this closure is a setback, our commitment to protecting and improving the health of all Washingtonians remains strong.”
Oregon reported that in 2025, approximately 700 young people contacted the dedicated LGBTQ+ support line. Thirty percent to 40% of those contacts came through text or chat, Oregon Health Authority spokesperson Kim Lippert said.
“OHA remains committed to serving all people with dignity, respect and empathy, and will continue to advocate for crisis systems that meet the needs of our communities,” Lippert said.
Idaho did not immediately provide call data specific to its LGBTQ+ crisis line. For the state as a whole, in its first quarter for 2025, the Idaho Suicide and Crisis Hotline responded to 4,549 calls and 557 chats and texts.
The report from Idaho’s hotline noted that of the roughly half of callers for whom demographic data was collected, 2.4% identified as another gender identity.
“The option for a dedicated line for LGBTQ+ individuals was removed,” said AJ McWhorter, a spokesperson for the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. “Anyone in any community will still receive care, compassion, and support when they call 988.”
The Trevor Project will continue to offer crisis support through its website or through text messaging. People can text “START” to 678-678, and place calls to 1-866-488-7386 to receive support.
988 will continue to offer free, confidential and specialized services. That includes a Veterans Crisis Line and a Spanish-language line.
In Washington, a “Native and Strong” lifeline for Indigenous people is also available.
Other services include the 24/7 Crisis Text Line, which can be reached by texting “HOME” to 741741, the LGBT National Hotline and the peer support Trans Lifeline.
Did You Enjoy This Story?
Stay informed with the top stories from NWPB journalists, delivered straight to your inbox every week. Sign up for our weekly news roundup and never miss a headline.
Get NWPB News
