AFSP Urges Congress to Reconsider Cuts to Critical Life-Saving Service for LGBTQ+ Youth

Yesterday, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) ordered the closure of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Press 3 Option, which connects LGBTQ+ youth with uniquely trained counselors and specialized services.

Eliminating this service will put young lives at risk. Facing stigma and discrimination, LGBTQ+ youth are over four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers¹, and in 2023, 41% of LGBTQ+ youth reported seriously considering suicide². These stark statistics underline the critical need for specialized support services, which research³ shows can build greater trust and lead to better outcomes in health and well-being for specific populations such as the LGTBQ+ community.

AFSP stands with all those in the mental health community strongly urging Congress to reverse this decision and continue funding these critical, life-saving services for LGBTQ+ youth within the 988 Lifeline.

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¹ CDC (2022)

² U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People (2023)

³ Practicing Cultural Competence and Cultural Humility in the Care of Diverse Patients (2020)