The national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has retired the “Press 3” youth option, which connected LGBTQ+ youth to affirming crisis support through The Trevor Project. Like many organizations and individuals who support and serve this community, we are deeply disappointed by this federal decision.
We know that access to compassionate mental health care is essential — especially for LGBTQ+ youth. Gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth have much higher rates of poor mental health than their heterosexual peers. Additionally, New Hampshire girls are twice as likely as boys to experience poor mental health, depression, self-harm, and suicide consideration. Girls receive mental health services at twice the rate of boys, and girls are more likely to ask for help, highlighting the urgent need for responsive, inclusive, and accessible mental health support for all youth.
While this change to the national 988 lifeline removes a dedicated youth crisis line, LGBTQ+ youth can still call the main 988 lifeline and receive mental health support. New Hampshire’s 988 services remain fully operational, inclusive, and committed to meeting people with care.
Call or text 988 anytime, 24/7, to be connected with trained crisis counselors. You are never alone.
To learn more about mental health for girls and LGBTQ+ youth, view our most recent Status of Girls in New Hampshire report. https://nhwomensfoundation.org/status-of-girls-nh/
