Washington state continues to offer help to marginalized youth in crisis, previous support line recently cut

The discontinuation of Washington's LGBTQI+ Youth Subnetwork of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has raised alarms about the availability of tailored support for marginalized youth. Assistant Secretary for Prevention and Community Health, Michele Roberts, highlighted the importance of this resource, which had been operational since 2022 and averaged over 800 calls and 250 texts monthly. In light of the closure, the Washington State Department of Health is directing individuals to the general 988 Lifeline, which offers free, confidential access to crisis counselors 24/7. This move reflects the state's commitment to serving all youth, particularly those in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, despite the setback. Mental health resources are critical for high-risk youth, who face unique challenges.

The DOH emphasizes that while the subnetwork's closure is concerning, support remains accessible through the broader 988 Lifeline. Ensuring that these individuals receive the care they need is essential for their well-being. The ongoing efforts to provide mental health support highlight the state's dedication to improving health outcomes for all Washingtonians.