Local counselors provide inclusive crisis support for all communities
SANTA FE — The national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline removed its “Press 3” option for LGBTQIA+ youth today, but New Mexico’s 988 service continues operation with no interruption and trained local counselors providing inclusive crisis support for all communities.
“Every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported during their most vulnerable moments,” said Kari Armijo, cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Health Care Authority. “While this national change removes one pathway to specialized support, our local counselors are trained to provide inclusive, affirming crisis intervention for all New Mexicans, including LGBTQIA+ youth individuals.”
The numbers show the need — in 2024, New Mexicans 988 Lifeline received 5,716 calls through the LGBTQIA+ support option. National data from the Trevor Project survey shows that nearly 40% of LGBTQ+ young people reported seriously considering suicide in 2024.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) is actively exploring additional options to enhance LGBTQIA+ crisis support through the 988 system. NM 988 counselors receive ongoing training in LGBTQIA+ cultural competency and affirming practices to ensure quality care for all callers.
Anyone experiencing a mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis can call or text 988 anytime to connect with trained local counselors. Services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The “Press 1” option for veterans and “Press 2” for Spanish-language support remain active and available. For more information about 988 services in New Mexico, visit 988nm.org
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We talk, interpret and smile in all languages. We provide written information to our customers in both English and Spanish and interpretation services are available in 58 languages through our provider, CTS Language Link. For our hearing, and speech impaired customers, we utilize Relay New Mexico, a free 24-hour service that ensures equal communication access via the telephone to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or speech disabled.