Starting July 17, the “press 3” option on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a dedicated line created to support LGBTQ+ youth, will be discontinued. After three years and more than 1.5 million calls and texts, the Trump administration has announced it is ending this specialized support. While the broader 988 Lifeline will remain available, the LGBTQ+ youth-specific hotline, launched in 2022, will no longer operate.
Sure, they’re saying that “everyone who contacts the 988 Lifeline will still get access to caring counselors.” But let’s be real: generic support isn’t enough. When you’re struggling, you need someone who understands your experience and doesn’t make you explain or defend your identity. Without that, many LGBTQ+ youth may hang up, shut down, or never reach out in the first place. Thankfully, The Trevor Project and other LGBTQ+ crisis services and advocacy organizations are doing what they’ve always done: showing up.
I want every LGBTQ+ young person to know that you are worthy, you are loved, and you belong — despite this heartbreaking news. The Trevor Project’s crisis counselors are here for you 24/7, just as we always have been, to help you navigate anything you might be feeling right now.
– Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project
Despite federal policy changes and funding cuts, The Trevor Project remains independently available, regardless of how the 988 Lifeline system evolves. Whether through a phone call, a text, or a chat, trained counselors are standing by and ready to help LGBTQ+ youth feel less alone. Reaching out can feel intimidating, but taking that step can be one of the bravest things you do. What really happens when you reach out to the Trevor Project?
You Can Reach Out Your Way
Reaching out your hand and asking for help is the bravest step you can take. The Trevor Project offers several ways to get in touch:
- Text START to 678-678. You’ll be connected to a trained counselor and be able to message them privately.
- Call 866-488-7386 if you want to speak to a counselor directly and confidentially over the phone.
- Visit TrevorChat.org if you prefer to chat online and connect with a counselor via online chat.
The Trevor Project is available 24/7, 365 days a year — whenever you’re ready to reach out.
You’ll Be Connected to a Caring, Trained LGBTQ+-Friendly Counselor
You’ll be connected to a Trevor counselor who understands LGBTQ+ issues and won’t judge you. When you reach out, their focus is on creating a safe space for you to talk with a trained professional. Your messages will be anonymous and confidential, and you can share as much or as little as you’d like.
Trevor Project counselors are trained to hold space for your feelings, affirm your identity with empathy, and listen without judgment. Their goal is to help you process what you’re experiencing, de-escalate immediate crises, and support you in creating a safety plan that empowers you to find longer-term support.
What if There’s a Wait?
The Trevor Project offers essential support and services to a large community — last year, they helped nearly 500,000 people — but if you happen to experience a brief wait time, don’t worry. You’ll be encouraged to try a calming exercise to help you breathe and focus. You can also explore LGBTQ+ resources for helpful articles and information while you wait. A counselor will be there with you before you know it.
A Note on Confidentiality: It’s important to know that in very specific instances of abuse or a clear concern of an in-progress or imminent suicide, Trevor counselors may need to contact a child welfare agency or emergency service. This is always done with the utmost care and only when absolutely necessary to ensure your safety.
In a world where access to specialized LGBTQ+ mental health services can feel uncertain, remember that The Trevor Project has been here for over 27 years, and they continue to be a steadfast lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth up to the age of 25. Their crisis counselors are prepared to support you, having undergone extensive training that includes role-playing, shadowing, and supervised shifts to ensure they provide the best possible support.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. You always have a welcoming community that cares about you, waiting to support you when and if you decide to reach out for help.
