Suicide Hotline 988 Surges in Calls—Why Experts Say Now Is the Time to Reach Out

A sweeping policy shift is set to reshape the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline next month: on 17 July, the federal government will discontinue the “Press 3” option that routes calls, texts and chats to counselors trained to serve LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) says it intends to “integrate” services rather than maintain a separate queue, but critics warn the move could erect new barriers for one of the nation’s most vulnerable groups. Why the change matters • Disproportionate risk: LGBTQ+ teens are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide as their non-LGBTQ+ peers, according to multiple national surveys. Many callers have relied on the dedicated line to reach counselors versed in family rejection, gender dysphoria and anti-LGBTQ+ bullying. • Trust and anonymity: Advocates argue that having to disclose sexual orientation or gender identity to obtain tailored help—rather than simply pressing a number—may deter youth in crisis. • Rising demand: Since 988 launched nationwide in 2022, overall call volume has climbed steadily; the LGBTQ+ option has fielded over 1 million contacts, accounting for roughly 18 percent of all texts and chats, SAMHSA data show. What SAMHSA and the White House say Administration officials contend the one-queue model will reduce wait times and expand access to specialized counselors “regardless of which prompt a help-seeker chooses.” They also note that federal funding for 988 is slated to rise to $520 million in fiscal-year 2026—even as the dedicated LGBTQ+ queue disappears. State and local reaction • California, New York, Illinois and at least six other states are exploring patchwork solutions, from funding their own LGBTQ+ hotlines to embedding queer-affirming counselors in existing 988 centers. • Mental-health nonprofits such as The Trevor Project and Trans Lifeline are urging donors to help offset the potential drop-off in specialized federal support. • Some red-state legislators, meanwhile, have applauded the consolidation, framing it as “streamlining” government services. What callers will experience on or after 17 July 1. Dial, text or chat 988. 2. Traditional prompts remain for veterans (Press 1) and Spanish-speakers (Press 2). The Press 3 option will be removed; callers wanting LGBTQ-affirming care must verbally request it or wait for an intake question. 3. If no affirming counselor is available, calls default to the general queue. Expert advice for families and educators • Discuss 988 openly so teens know what to expect from the menu change. • Save backups: The Trevor Project (866-488-7386) and Trans Lifeline (877-565-8860) remain 24/7. • Encourage chat-based services; many youth report feeling safer typing than speaking. How to help right now Share accurate information on social media, volunteer at local crisis centers, and urge state lawmakers to pass telecom fees that permanently fund 988 operations. Small actions—like posting the number in school bathrooms or adding it to email signatures—can be lifesaving. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 (any language, any hour). Veterans can still press 1. Spanish speakers can press 2. Additional LGBTQ-affirming resources are listed above.