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The LGBTQI+ Youth Subnetwork of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is shutting down as of July 17, following a federal decision announced last month to end this specialized service, the Washington State Department of Health said. Since launching in 2022, the subnetwork has provided tailored support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual and two-spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) youth ages 13 to 24.
According to a health department news release, LGBTQIA2S+ youth have a higher risk of suicide and other mental health concerns due to historic and ongoing structural violence and discrimination. The specialized line has provided a safe, affirming space where trained counselors — many of whom were from the LGBTQIA2S+ community themselves– help with mental health crises, substance use concerns, and access to resources for longer-term support.
In Washington state, the LGBTQI+ Youth Subnetwork line receives an average of 830 calls, 270 texts, and 224 chats each month. Its closure is expected to increase demand on the main 988 Lifeline and could reduce visibility for LGBTQIA2S+ needs, which will affect access to care during a crisis. the health department said.
“We’re deeply concerned about the loss of this vital service,” said Michele Roberts, the department’s assistant secretary for prevention and community health. “The LGBTQI+ Youth Subnetwork has been a critical resource for LGBTQIA2S+ youth and young adults with affirming care tailored to meet their unique needs. While this closure is a setback, our commitment to protecting and improving the health of all Washingtonians remains strong. Our state is ready to serve anyone who contacts 988, including LGBTQIA2S+ youth and young adults.”
Support remains available
The 988 Lifeline, now entering its third year of free, confidential, 24/7/365 support, will remain available through Washington’s three contracted crisis centers. In response to the subnetwork’s sudden closure, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is working to ensure the state’s 988 crisis counselors are trained to support LGBTQIA2S+ youth and young adults.
“Our crisis counselors will continue to provide compassionate, accessible care and support to anyone,” said Levi Van Dyke, chief behavioral health officer at Volunteers of America Western Washington, one of the three Washington 988 Lifeline crisis centers and one of the crisis centers that answered the LGBTQI+ Youth Subnetwork line. “They are always ready to listen and help you and your loved ones.”
People who contact the 988 Lifeline can still get free, confidential and specialized services available 24/7/365 from three other subnetworks:
- Veterans Crisis Line – for veterans and military families
- Spanish Subnetwork – for Spanish-speaking individuals
- Native & Strong Lifeline – available in Washington for Native and Indigenous people
You can also use these resources to get help with mental health and substance use concerns, thoughts of suicide, and other kinds of emotional distress:
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