How the 988 Lifeline is transforming mental health into powerful support for the LGBTQI+ community this Pride & beyond

This story is brought to you by our partners at SAMHSA.

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the vibrancy and resilience of the LGBTQI+ community. Amidst the festivities and parades, it's crucial to acknowledge the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQI+ individuals. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is stepping up to meet these challenges with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a groundbreaking initiative designed to provide immediate, specialized support for those seeking mental health support for themselves or others. By offering a direct line to skilled, caring counselors, the 988 Lifeline is a beacon of hope, ensuring that anyone in the LGBTQI+ community has someone to talk to.

The 988 Lifeline offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors via text, call, or chat. For LGBTQI+ youth and young adults, the Lifeline provides specialized services that can be accessed by texting "Pride" to 988, calling 988 and selecting option 3, or through the chat feature on 988lifeline.org. These counselors are trained to address the unique needs of LGBTQI+ individuals, offering support that is inclusive, compassionate, and non-judgmental.

SAMHSA's initiative is rooted in the understanding that LGBTQI+ individuals often face higher risks for mental health issues and suicide due to societal stigmatization, discrimination, and harassment. To address these disparities, SAMHSA has dedicated approximately $70 million to create a network of counselors trained specifically on LGBTQI+ issues. This investment is part of a broader commitment by SAMHSA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to advance equality and improve mental health outcomes for LGBTQI+ people.

The 988 Lifeline is not just for those experiencing suicidal thoughts. Whether someone is dealing with emotional distress, substance use concerns, mental health issues, or is concerned about a friend or loved one, they can reach out to 988 for support*. The Lifeline's counselors are equipped to provide immediate, one-on-one assistance, ensuring that individuals receive the care they need, when they need it.

One of the most significant aspects of the 988 Lifeline is its discretion. You don't have to reveal your identity or location to receive support. This anonymity can be crucial for LGBTQI+ individuals who may fear that the information will be shared with individuals who do not know or accept their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Lifeline ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, circumstances, or location**, has someone to talk to at a time and place that works for them.

The vast majority of those seeking help from the 988 Lifeline have their needs resolved privately in their call, text, or chat connection with the 988 Lifeline counselor. Currently, a small percentage of 988 Lifeline callers require activation of the 911 system, and most of those are done with the consent and cooperation of the caller. This occurs when there is an imminent risk to someone’s life that cannot be reduced during the 988 Lifeline call. In these cases, the crisis counselor shares information with 911 that is crucial to saving the caller’s life.

The importance of this service cannot be overstated. SAMHSA's Lesbian, gay, and bisexual behavioral health: Results from the 2021 and 2022 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health report highlights that lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults are more likely than their straight counterparts to use substances, experience major depressive episodes, and have serious thoughts of suicide. These statistics underscore the critical need for tailored mental health support within the LGBTQI+ community.

To further enhance its impact, SAMHSA has funded a new $6.8 million grant program aimed at increasing family acceptance of LGBTQI+ youth. Family acceptance is a crucial factor in the mental health and well-being of LGBTQI+ individuals, and this program seeks to foster supportive environments that can significantly reduce mental health risks.

As we celebrate Pride Month, it's essential to recognize the strides being made to support the mental health of the LGBTQI+ community. The 988 Lifeline, backed by SAMHSA and the HHS, is a testament to the progress and commitment towards creating a safer, more inclusive society. The 988 Lifeline offers a lifeline in the truest sense, providing immediate, specialized support that can save lives and foster resilience. No one should have to face their struggles alone, and with 988, no one has to. Embrace your pride, reach out if you need help, and remember, you are not alone. Learn more today.

* Along with specialized counseling for LGBTQI+ youth and young adults, 988 provides services for Veterans, service members, and their families; people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing; Spanish speakers. It also has translation services in over 240 languages.

** 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available only in the United States and its five territories.