Fact Check: SAMHSA removes 'T' from LGBTQ, sparking outrage during Pride Month!

Fact Check: "SAMHSA removes 'T' from LGBTQ, sparking outrage during Pride Month!"

What We Know

The claim that the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has removed the "T" from LGBTQ services has been confirmed by multiple sources. On June 18, 2025, SAMHSA announced that the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline would cease providing tailored support options specifically for LGBTQ+ youth, effective July 17, 2025 (AP News). This decision has been met with significant backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates and organizations, particularly as it coincides with Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ identities and rights (BBC).

The 988 Lifeline had previously included a specific option for LGBTQ+ youth, allowing them to connect with counselors trained to address their unique challenges. However, SAMHSA's recent statement indicated that the hotline would "no longer silo LGB+ youth services," effectively omitting the "T" (transgender) and "Q" (queer) from its services (Trevor Project). This change has been described by advocates as "callous," particularly given the heightened risk of suicide among LGBTQ+ youth (CBS News).

Analysis

The decision to remove the "T" from LGBTQ services within the 988 Lifeline is rooted in broader political and social contexts. The Trump administration's proposal to cut funding for LGBTQ+ youth services has been criticized for undermining the support systems that are crucial for this vulnerable population (CNN). The Trevor Project, which has been instrumental in providing these services, emphasized that the decision would have detrimental effects on LGBTQ+ youth, who are already at a significantly higher risk for suicide compared to their peers (ABC News).

Critics argue that the removal of specific services for transgender and queer youth reflects a broader trend of erasing LGBTQ+ identities from public discourse and policy. The omission of the "T" and "Q" in SAMHSA's communications has been interpreted as a deliberate attempt to marginalize these groups (Trevor Project). Given the historical context of systemic discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, the reliability of sources criticizing this decision is bolstered by their established advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health support.

Conclusion

The claim that SAMHSA has removed the "T" from LGBTQ services is True. The evidence indicates that the 988 Lifeline will no longer provide specialized support for transgender and queer youth, a decision that has sparked outrage among advocates during Pride Month. This change not only affects the availability of critical mental health resources for a vulnerable population but also reflects ongoing political tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the United States.