The Trevor Project reports a staggering rise in communications from distressed young people post-election, amid growing concerns over anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
Following the controversial 2024 United States presidential election, organisations dedicated to supporting LGBT+ youth have observed a significant surge in distress calls from young people across the country. The election saw Donald Trump reclaim the presidency, triggering a wave of concern and anxiety within the queer community.
The Trevor Project, a prominent non-profit focused on suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth, reported a nearly 200 percent increase in communications featuring election-related discussions. This organisation operates a round-the-clock crisis hotline, offering free counselling and support. Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, expressed in a statement that the spike, while concerning, was not unforeseen due to the political climate and ongoing anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.
Data from the organisation indicates that 90 percent of LGBT+ young individuals noted a detrimental effect on their mental health post-election. Parallel increases in outreach have been observed by other advocacy groups. The Rainbow Youth Project, another non-profit supporting the LGBTQ+ community, shared with the Washington Post that it received over 3,810 calls within just six days, exceeding their monthly average. Similarly, organisations such as OneIowa have reported an uptick in emails and inquiries.
This response is likely linked to Donald Trump’s campaign promises and past comments, which include a commitment to rescind federal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Additionally, his rhetoric around gender-affirming care — falsely depicting it as abusive — has been a focal point of his campaign and subsequent policies. These positions have been amplified by Republican ad spending, reportedly surpassing $120 million, targeting transgender individuals specifically.
Research by The Trevor Project indicates troubling effects from anti-trans legislation, correlating with increased suicide attempts among transgender youth, sometimes rising by as much as 72 percent. The statistics highlight a broader mental health crisis, with over 1.8 million LGBT+ young adults in the U.S. considering suicide annually from ages 13 to 24.
Amidst this challenging environment, Jaymes Black reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to providing support, reminding young LGBTQ+ individuals that they need not endure this alone. The Trevor Project continues to offer its services via phone and text.
Globally, mental health resources are available for those in crisis. In the UK, for instance, individuals can reach out to the Samaritans for support. Internationally, Befrienders Worldwide offers a directory of helplines to assist those needing immediate assistance.
Source: Noah Wire Services