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The main point: The Trump administration is cutting the 988 specialized crisis response services for LGBTQ+ youth.
The details:
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will end the “Press 3” option on the crisis line on July 17.
- SAMHSA said the decision was made to maximize efficiency, writing in a statement that it would no longer “silo LGB+ youth services” and focus instead on “serving all help seekers,” including LGBTQ+ youth.
Next: The Trevor Project, an organization focused on LGBTQ+ youth mental health that helped run the specialized 988 services, has started a petition to reverse the cut.
The context: HHS’ FY 2026 budget proposal also proposes to remove funding for the hotline.
Why it’s important: LGBTQ+ youth are particularly at risk for mental health and substance use issues. The LGBTQ+ hotline received 1.3 million calls since its pilot in 2022.
Read more: Trump administration to end LGBTQ+-specific crisis hotline
Published
June 2025