AFSP Appeals to Congress to Maintain Essential Crisis Services for LGBTQ+ Youth

On June 19, 2025, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) announced its grave concern regarding the recent decision by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to close a key component of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This specific service option, referred to as Press 3, provides LGBTQ+ youth with direct access to counselors trained in the nuances of their distinct challenges.

The closure of this service poses a significant threat to the safety and well-being of these vulnerable young individuals. Statistics indicate that LGBTQ+ youth are subjected to elevated risks of mental health crises. Research highlights that they are over four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual peers. As of 2023, a startling 41% of LGBTQ+ youth acknowledged having serious suicidal thoughts. Such alarming figures underscore the urgent need for specialized assistance tailored to this demographic, who often face unique stressors, such as stigma and discrimination.

The AFSP emphasizes that the provision of culturally competent care is essential in helping LGBTQ+ youth navigate their mental health struggles. Studies show that when these young individuals receive care from professionals who understand their specific cultural context, they are more likely to develop trust in the system, leading to improved mental health outcomes. Consequently, the winding down of this crucial service threatens to undo years of progress made in the mental health care of LGBTQ+ youth.

In light of these developments, Bob Gebbia, CEO of AFSP, has called upon Congress to reconsider and reverse the decision that impacts these critical services. A coalition of mental health advocates has rallied around this cause, mobilizing efforts to ensure the continuation of specialized care needed by LGBTQ+ youth navigating mental health challenges.

The statistics paint a compelling picture. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in 2022 about the mental health crisis among LGBTQ+ youth, illustrating a need for intervention that is both immediate and sustained. The U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People in 2023 further supports this claim, marking an urgent requirement for targeted services.

Memorable quotes from leaders in the mental health community reiterate the necessity of ongoing funding for essential services that aim to protect LGBTQ+ youth. They argue that dismantling this safety net would leave many without access to help when they need it the most, potentially leading to irreversible consequences.

As advocacy efforts intensify, AFSP is determined to ensure that the voices of the LGBTQ+ community resonate in the halls of Congress. They are committed to mobilizing resources, connecting with legislators, and raising awareness to ensure the future of mental health support for LGBTQ+ youth remains secure. The elimination of the Press 3 option represents not just a loss of resources but a step backward in the ongoing fight for mental health equity.

In conclusion, the AFSP's call to action is clear – Congress must act swiftly to restore these vital services. The health and lives of countless LGBTQ+ youth depend on it. It is crucial that policymakers recognize the significance of maintaining access to life-saving mental health support, particularly in light of the challenges that this community faces every day.