What happens when life-saving support is taken away from those who need it most?
Susan Harrington, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Maison Vie, joins KLFY-TV CBS to discuss the recent shutdown of the LGBTQ+ crisis chat line under the 988 suicide prevention system — and why this change matters.
She explains how this affects LGBTQ+ youth, the vital role of identity-affirming care, and where families can still find support during a time of rising need and political tension.
The federal government has ended funding for the LGBTQ+ crisis chat line under the 988 suicide prevention system. While general crisis support is still available, the option to speak with counselors trained in LGBTQ+ issues is gone — a loss that limits not just access, but safety for those already at greater risk.
What’s Changing — and What’s Not
It’s important to be clear: LGBTQ+ individuals, including youth, can still call, text, or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The hotline remains active and available 24/7.
What’s gone is the dedicated LGBTQ+ subnetwork, a feature that connected callers directly with trained, identity-affirming counselors. For many, that distinction made all the difference between feeling heard or feeling dismissed.
This shift doesn’t eliminate help, but it does remove a layer of trust and cultural understanding that’s vital for at-risk communities.
The Risk is Real
According to The Trevor Project’s 2024 national survey,
- More than 1 in 10 LGBTQ+ youth attempted suicide in the past year
- Nearly half of transgender and nonbinary youth seriously considered suicide
- 50% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care couldn’t get it — often due to fear of judgment or lack of affirming providers
- 90% said their mental health was negatively impacted by recent political events
When LGBTQ+ youth are denied access to specialized care, it’s not just about policy. It’s about lives.
At Maison Vie, we want you to know: You still matter. Your experience is real. And help is still out there.
Crisis Support You Can Still Count On
Even without the 988 subnetwork, there are still trusted, identity-affirming resources ready to help:
The Trevor Project – 24/7 support for LGBTQ+ youth
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- Call: 1-866-488-7386
- Chat: TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help
- Text: Text START to 678678
Trans Lifeline – Peer-led, confidential support without police involvement
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- Call: (877) 565-8860
LGBT National Hotline – Peer support and information
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- Call: (888) 843-4564
Crisis Text Line – Free 24/7 support via SMS
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- Text: START to 741-741
Rainbow Youth Project – Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults
PFLAG National – Support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and families
988 Lifeline – Still active, but no longer identity-specific
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- Call: 988
- Chat: chat.988lifeline.org
- Text: SMS “988”
Louisiana-Based Support
In addition to national organizations, there are local resources right here in Louisiana offering affirming care, crisis support, and community for LGBTQ+ individuals and families. These organizations understand the unique challenges of living in the South and are committed to showing up for you.
KDH Counseling
KDH Counseling provides inclusive therapy services, with a focus on empowering individuals across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Their Lafayette-based practice offers affirming care and publishes helpful mental health resources.
📍 kdholmeslpc.com
📞 (337) 895-0300
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Mental Health: Resources & Support
The Family Tree
For over 45 years, The Family Tree has provided counseling, education, and support to individuals and families across Acadiana. LGBTQ+ individuals seeking affirming support can contact Lexi Menard directly for personalized help.
📍 acadianafamilytree.org
📞 (337) 981-2180
📧 Lexi Menard – lmenard@acadianafamilytree.org
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or just need someone to talk to, Maison Vie is here. Always. We are trained to listen and support without judgment — and our hearts are with you. Whether you’re seeking therapy, guidance, or simply a safe space to feel supported, we welcome you to reach out.
