The Trump administration ended specific 988 hotline support for LGBTQ+ youth on Thursday.
The national 988 hotline provides mental health and substance use support from trained professionals 24/7.
Previously, the hotline had an option to “press 3,” where callers could be connected to a line specifically dedicated to young LGBTQ+ people.
The Trump administration said it is phasing that hotline out because it allowed children to embrace radical gender ideologies without the consent or knowledge of their parents.
Maryland officials are reminding residents that 988 is still open for anyone to call and will continue to provide mental health and substance use support.
“Although this option is going away, the 988 Helpline is still available to provide free, confidential support to anyone who calls looking for help,” said Adrienne Breidenstine, vice president for policy and communications at Behavioral Health System Baltimore. “We are committed to serving everyone who calls or texts 988, including people who identify as LGBTQ+.”
