Navigating the End of the 988 LGBTQ+ Specialized Line: What Texas LPCs Need to Know

As of July 17, 2025, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s “Press 3” option—dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth and young adults—has been discontinued. This significant change has wide-reaching implications for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Texas who work with LGBTQ+ clients. Understanding the reasons behind this transition and the resources now available is crucial for providing effective, culturally competent care.

What Was the “Press 3” Option?

Launched in late 2022, the “Press 3” option connected LGBTQ+ youth to trained counselors, many of whom shared lived experiences with those they served. This subnetwork supported around 1.3 million contacts, representing approximately 10% of all calls, texts, and chats to the 988 Lifeline. The service was hailed as a critical, affirming resource for a particularly vulnerable population.

Why Was It Discontinued?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which oversees and funds 988, announced in June 2025 that it would end support for these specialized services. The rationale was a shift toward “serving all help seekers” in a more unified way, rather than maintaining dedicated lines for specific groups.

While this move aims to make 988 broadly accessible, it also means that the unique, culturally competent support for LGBTQ+ youth previously available through “Press 3” is no longer offered directly within the 988 Lifeline.

Implications for Texas LPCs

Increased Demand for Affirming Care

LGBTQ+ youths in Texas face higher rates of mental health challenges and suicide risk than their peers.
With the loss of the specialized line, LPCs may see increases in crisis calls and client anxiety about available resources.
Removing specialized, identity-affirming crisis support may erode trust in crisis response systems among LGBTQ+ youth and families.

Continuing Role of 988

The 988 Lifeline remains available to all individuals in crisis, but no longer routes LGBTQ+ callers to dedicated counselors.
LPCs should educate clients about this update to prevent confusion or distress if they utilize 988 in a crisis.

Alternative LGBTQ+-Affirming Crisis Supports

While 988 continues as a general line, several organizations remain dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth support:

Resource	Description	Access Info
The Trevor Project	24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth	Call, Text, or Chat (see their website)
NAMI HelpLine	Support and referrals for those affected by mental health conditions	1-800-950-6264, Text "NAMI" to 62640
Trans Lifeline	Peer support run by and for trans people	Call for hours/details

Action Steps for Texas LPCs

Update safety planning materials and crisis resource lists to accurately reflect the discontinuation of “Press 3.”
Proactively discuss the change with LGBTQ+ clients, normalizing mixed emotions and reinforcing their options.
Refer clients to trusted LGBTQ+-affirming organizations as needed—especially for crisis support.
Advocate for continued and expanded mental health resources tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

This transition is a reminder of the critical importance of affirming mental health care for LGBTQ+ youth. Texas LPCs are uniquely positioned to help clients navigate the changing landscape, maintain access to crisis support, and foster trust in mental health services moving forward.

If you or someone you know needs immediate, affirming crisis support, The Trevor Project and other community organizations remain committed to serving LGBTQ+ youth.

...supervision matters!