Until recently, LGBTQ+ youth in crisis could press 3 when calling the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and be connected to someone who truly understood — a counselor trained in the unique challenges queer and trans young people face.

But that option is now gone.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services cut federal funding for this specialized LGBTQ+ support. As of this month, the “Press 3” feature — a lifeline for many who were afraid to speak to a stranger about their identity, mental health, or suicidal thoughts — has been shut down.

This loss is more than symbolic. It's a barrier to care for young people who already face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation — and who often fear that general crisis lines won’t understand or respect who they are.

We’re calling on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to step in.

We urge NC leaders to invest in state-funded LGBTQ+ mental health and crisis services, ensuring young people in our state still have a dedicated line to call — one with trained staff, affirming support, and life-saving understanding.

LGBTQ+ youth shouldn’t suffer in silence just because federal funding disappeared. Let’s make sure someone is still there to answer the call.