988 Lifeline Ending LGBTQ Subnetwork in July
The planned discontinuation of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline's LGBTQ subnetwork "represents a significant and dangerous step backward in our collective commitment to prioritizing mental health for all young people," nonprofit Active Minds said Monday. The Substance Abuse and…
Sign up for a free preview to unlock the rest of this article
Communications Daily is required reading for senior executives at top telecom corporations, law firms, lobbying organizations, associations and government agencies (including the FCC). Join them today!
Mental Health Services Administration said last week that the subnetwork -- known as "Press 3 option" -- will end July 17. It was established in FY 2022 as a pilot program, SAMHSA said, and as of this month, all the money that Congress allocated for it has been spent. After the Press 3 option shutters, "everyone who contacts the 988 Lifeline will continue to receive access to skilled, caring, culturally competent crisis counselors," SAMHSA added. Meanwhile, Active Minds urged Congress to restore funding. "Every young person deserves access to mental health care that is safe, responsive, and tailored to their lived experience."