The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline dropped the specialized option for LGBTQ+ youth, known as the "Press 3" option.

"It really gives people hope," said North Central Mental Health Services, Inc.'s 988 and suicide prevention services director, Ali O'Donnell.

The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — 988 — launched on this day exactly three years ago. People who call the line seeking support are connected to a local network of crisis centers and a trained crisis counselor.

The Illinois Department of Human Services announced that the state will financially support the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Illinois.The hotline offers mental health services to LGBTQIA+ youth.The federal government ended funding for the 988 Lifeline in June.

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will continue to provide services for LGBTQIA+ youth in Illinois after