California boosts mental health support as federal funds cut for LGBTQ crisis line

The Trump administration has announced the discontinuation of specialized support for LGBTQ callers through the national suicide prevention hotline, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This decision affects a service that has been crucial for many in crisis. Governor Gavin Newsom of California criticized this move, emphasizing the importance of maintaining such support.

Newsom stated, "Cutting off a proven lifeline for people in need is outrageous and inexcusable. While this federal administration slashes services and tries to erase LGBTQ people, California will do the opposite. Every child — straight, gay, transgender — belongs."

Since September 2022, the Trevor Project has been providing specialized support to LGBTQ youth through the 988 Lifeline. However, federal funding for these services will cease on July 17. The Trevor Project estimates that over 1.8 million LGBTQ young individuals in the U.S. seriously consider suicide annually, with an attempt occurring every 45 seconds. In 2024 alone, their counselors assisted approximately 500,000 people; about half of these came through the 988 line.

In response to this federal change, California is enhancing its mental health initiatives with significant investments like a $4.7 billion Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health and partnerships with organizations such as the Trevor Project to continue providing suicide prevention resources for LGBTQ youth.

California operates twelve centers staffed by trained crisis counselors who manage calls from those seeking help during crises via the 988 service. Specialized services can still be accessed directly through the Trevor Project at their helpline.

Additionally, California offers digital mental health support through CalHOPE for non-crisis situations. The CalHOPE warm line connects individuals to peer counselors offering compassionate listening and guidance towards further resources.

CalHOPE Connect provides emotional support sensitive to cultural needs across California for stress-related issues like anxiety and depression.