Trump Administration to Discontinue LGBTQ+ Youth Support on 988 Lifeline, Sparking Backlash
The Trump administration will end specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth on the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline effective July 17, facing significant criticism.
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Overview
- The Trump administration's decision to end tailored support for LGBTQ+ youth on the 988 Lifeline will take effect on July 17, 2023.
- This move has drawn backlash, particularly from advocates and lawmakers, including Sen. Tammy Baldwin, who condemned it as cruel during Pride Month.
- The program has served nearly 1.3 million LGBTQ+ youth since its launch in September 2022, highlighting its importance amid rising mental health crises.
- Federal data indicates that LGBTQ+ youth are at a higher risk of suicide, with nearly 40% considering it, underscoring the need for specialized support.
- The decision comes as part of a broader budget proposal and aims to focus on serving all help seekers, despite significant demand for LGBTQ+ services.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the decision to end specialized LGBTQ+ youth services as a significant setback, emphasizing the potential harm to vulnerable populations. They express concern over the perceived insensitivity of the move, highlighting the urgency of tailored support amidst rising suicide rates among LGBTQ+ youth, reflecting a protective bias towards marginalized communities.
"The decision to remove tailored support options for LGBTQ+ youth from the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is raising alarm bells among LGBTQ+ advocates."
Associated Press"The planned change is described as "devastating" and a "cruelly and needlessly taking" away a crucial resource for LGBTQ+ people in crisis."
CBS News"The Trump administration is ending specialized suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline."
NPR"The decision to remove a bipartisan, evidence-based service that has effectively supported a high-risk group of young people through their darkest moments is incomprehensible."
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FAQ
Removing specialized LGBTQ+ services from the 988 hotline could significantly reduce access to tailored mental health support for LGBTQ+ youth, who are already at a higher risk of suicide compared to their peers. This might exacerbate the mental health crisis among this demographic.
The LGBTQ+ service on the 988 hotline operated through specific centers with counselors trained to support LGBTQ+ youth. Users could access these services by pressing 3 when calling or texting 'PRIDE' to 988. Initially, the service had limited hours but was expanded to 24/7 in March 2023.
Although the specialized service will be discontinued, LGBTQ+ youth can still access general support through the main 988 line. Additionally, organizations like The Trevor Project may continue to provide some form of support, though specifics are not detailed.
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