SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — LGBTQ+ youth have reached out to the 9-8-8 hotline over 1.5 million times to speak with crisis counselors. Unfortunately, the option for specialized assistance has been removed from their available services.
Since its inception, the 988 lifeline has allowed LGBTQ+ youth to press 3 for counseling tailored to their needs. Sadly, that specific support is no longer accessible.
Now, Illinois officials have prepared their operators to handle more calls.
“To us, this is really a life-or-death issue,” said Allie Lichterman, IDHS Crisis Community Programs Administrator.
The Illinois Department of Human Services has made sure operators in the state are prepared to handle callers from all backgrounds.
“We aim to provide truly confidential and affirming care, meeting them at their unique needs while also considering their broader well-being and recognizing their complete identity,” Lichterman expressed.
LGBTQ+ youth are more than four times more likely to consider suicide compared to their straight friends.
Experts say it’s because they experience discrimination and stigma.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration announced the decision as an effort to cut costs, noting in a statement they spent more than $33 million to silo callers.
“Everyone who contacts the 988 Lifeline will continue to receive access to skilled, caring, culturally competent crisis counselors who can help with suicidal, substance misuse, or mental health crises, or any other kind of emotional distress,” the agency said in a statement. “Anyone who calls the Lifeline will continue to receive compassion and help.”
Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle have asked the Trump administration to reverse course, saying it’s worth the price.
“In the face of a youth mental health crisis and rise in attacks against the LGBTQ+ community, we cannot afford to lose this lifesaving resource.” Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) said.
The nonprofit organization, The Trevor Project, still offers crisis support 24-7 designed for LGBTQ+ children and teens. You can find more information on their website.
