Calls to LGBTQ+ mental health and crisis hotlines surged dramatically on Monday as Donald Trump was sworn in for his second presidential term, with many expressing fear and distress over his administration’s early policy moves targeting the LGBTQ+ community.
By early Monday afternoon according to The Advocate, the Rainbow Youth Project USA Foundation’s hotline had fielded more than 1,400 calls, a sharp increase compared to previous years. Prior to Trump’s first term, the organization received about 3,765 calls per month. However, after Trump’s victory in the 2024 election, the number of calls has escalated significantly, with the foundation reporting more than 8,000 calls in both November and December 2024.
In just the first 19 days of January 2025, nearly 4,000 calls had already been logged, marking a staggering rise in the need for LGBTQ+ crisis support. The calls, many from vulnerable youth, reflect the increasing anxiety and fear among LGBTQ+ individuals in the wake of Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policy changes.
A Nation on Edge: Crisis Calls Reflect Growing Concern
Kristen Johnston, case manager and crisis team leader at the Rainbow Youth Project USA Foundation, expressed alarm over the sharp rise in calls, particularly on the day of Trump’s inauguration. “Our hotline serves as a critical lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth grappling with the challenges of bullying, social stigmatization, and the looming threat of institutionalized discrimination,” she said. “The data we’re seeing is alarming, and it underscores the urgent need for advocacy, community support, and immediate action to protect our youth.”
LGBTQ+ mental health advocates warn that the heightened anxiety following Trump’s inauguration is a result of both his divisive rhetoric and the rapid signing of executive orders aimed at dismantling protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Trump’s Inaugural Speech and Early Executive Orders Prompt Immediate Reactions
In his inaugural speech, President Trump reaffirmed his stance on LGBTQ+ issues, stating, “As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female.” This declaration, coupled with promises to end government policies promoting race and gender diversity, sent a chilling message to many LGBTQ+ advocates.
Within hours of taking office, Trump signed a series of executive orders targeting LGBTQ+ rights. One executive order defined sex as strictly based on “reproductive biology at birth,” a move that would restrict transgender and nonbinary individuals from obtaining federal identification that reflects their gender identity. The order also aimed to undermine the impact of the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Bostock v. Clayton Co., which affirmed that discrimination against LGBTQ+ employees constitutes sex-based discrimination under federal law.
Additionally, Trump rescinded key policies put in place by his predecessor, President Joe Biden, to protect LGBTQ+ individuals. Among the actions revoked were Biden’s Executive Order 14021, which mandated protections for LGBTQ+ students in schools that receive federal funding, and Executive Order 14075, which advanced protections for LGBTQ+ families and sought to reduce the harm caused by conversion therapy.
The moves were met with widespread condemnation from LGBTQ+ organizations. “Today’s expected executive actions targeting the LGBTQ+ community serve no other purpose than to hurt our families and our communities,” said Kelley Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). “Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect in all areas of their lives. No one should be subjected to ongoing discrimination, harassment, and humiliation where they work, go to school, or access healthcare.”
The Impact on LGBTQ+ Youth and Mental Health
Mental health professionals and LGBTQ+ advocates are particularly concerned about the impact of these actions on young people. Many of those reaching out to the Rainbow Youth Project USA Foundation have reported heightened stress, feelings of rejection, and fear about their future security. LGBTQ+ youth, who are already at higher risk for mental health struggles, are facing new layers of uncertainty and concern about their rights and safety.
The Trevor Project, a leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ youth, has also reported a spike in calls and messages since the inauguration. The organization provides confidential support via phone, text, and chat, helping young people navigate the emotional turmoil triggered by policies that undermine their rights and dignity.
“It’s clear that these policy shifts are having a profound effect on our community, especially among young people who are already vulnerable to mental health crises,” said Amit Paley, CEO of The Trevor Project. “In times like these, it’s vital that we continue to provide spaces for LGBTQ+ youth to feel heard and supported, and we encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out.”
Available Support for LGBTQ+ Individuals in Crisis
For those struggling with the emotional toll of the current political climate, several organizations are offering immediate support. Individuals can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for help in both English and Spanish.
Additionally, The Trans Lifeline (1-877-565-8860) offers peer support specifically for trans individuals, while The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth via chat, text (678-678), or phone (1-866-488-7386). These services are available to help individuals navigate the challenges they face in an increasingly hostile environment.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Action and Advocacy
As the political landscape shifts under the new administration, LGBTQ+ advocates are calling for renewed action to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. While the surge in calls to mental health hotlines underscores the urgent need for support, it also highlights the broader fight for equality and dignity.
“We must not allow the progress we’ve made to be rolled back,” said Robinson of the HRC. “Now more than ever, it’s essential that we stand together as a community to protect the rights and well-being of all LGBTQ+ individuals.”
With a new administration in place, LGBTQ+ groups are preparing to challenge harmful policies and continue their fight for equal treatment and protections under the law. For now, LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies remain focused on providing support and resources to those who need it most, particularly as a wave of uncertainty and fear continues to impact the community.