WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the wake of Election Day, crisis calls from LGBTQ+ youth skyrocketed a massive 700%, according to data from The Trevor Project, the nation’s leading suicide prevention organization for queer and trans youth. The surge came after the presidential race was called for Donald Trump early Wednesday, sparking widespread anxiety and fear among young LGBTQ+ Americans.
The Trevor Project reported an overwhelming increase in calls, texts, and online chats compared to previous weeks. The organization’s services, which support LGBTQ+ youth navigating mental health challenges, are experiencing extended wait times as they respond to what many describe as “election anxiety.”
A Political Climate of Uncertainty
This dramatic increase in outreach underscores the mental health toll of a political climate increasingly hostile to LGBTQ+ communities. During his campaign, Trump spent over $20 million on ads targeting trans people and attacking pro-LGBTQ+ policies. His proposals for his second term include charging educators with sex discrimination for affirming students’ gender identities, echoing the wave of state-level anti-LGBTQ+ legislation seen in recent years.
These laws and the rhetoric surrounding them have eroded the mental health of queer and trans youth. Research by The Trevor Project, published in Nature Human Behavior, revealed that state laws restricting transgender rights significantly increase suicide risk among trans and nonbinary youth.
The current political environment in the U.S. is heavy, but it’s so important for LGBTQ+ young people to know that they do not have to shoulder this weight alone.”
Resources & Support
To address the mental health crisis, The Trevor Project encourages LGBTQ+ youth to disconnect from stressful news cycles, limit social media exposure, and seek supportive communities. “LGBTQ+ young people: your life matters, and you were born to live it,” Black said.
For immediate support, LGBTQ+ youth and their families can access:
— The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678.
— Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988, Text 988, or Chat Online.
— Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741741.
Additional resources include:
— Trans Lifeline: Offers specific post-election grief support.
— Q Chat Space: A safe online platform for LGBTQ+ teens to connect over shared interests.
— PFLAG: Local chapters provide support for parents and allies of LGBTQ+ youth.
— Lambda Legal: Compiles state-specific resources, including mentorship programs and community centers.
Building Resilience
Despite the challenges, organizations like The Trevor Project remain committed to providing hope and resources. “The wave of anti-LGBTQ+ policies continues to harm young people’s mental health,” Black said. “But together, we can ensure that every LGBTQ+ youth knows they are loved and supported.”
For those in crisis or seeking support, reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor can make a world of difference. In a time of uncertainty, the message is clear: help is available, and you are never alone. ❤
