CHADD joined other members of the Mental Health Liaison Group in supporting the reinstatement of specialized crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The coalition has long advocated for a strong national 988 system and for specialized crisis services for populations that may face particular barriers or risks when seeking help.

On Sept. 30, the 988 Lifeline restored its specialized “Press 3” option for LGBTQ+ youth. The service connects young people with crisis counselors trained to provide support responsive to their experiences and needs. The specialized service had been unavailable since July 2025.

Access to appropriate mental health care and crisis support is especially important for young people. LGBTQ+ youth experience substantially higher rates of suicide attempts than their peers, making timely access to counselors with relevant training an important part of the nation’s crisis-response system.

The restoration follows federal action requiring the services to return and months of advocacy from mental health organizations and bipartisan lawmakers.

For CHADD, supporting this effort reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that children, adults, and families can find appropriate mental health resources when they need them.

The return of specialized 988 services is worth celebrating. It is also a reminder of what sustained advocacy can accomplish when organizations work together to protect access to care.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.