Approximately 21,300, or 19.2 percent of High School youth in New Mexico identify as LGBTQIA+, according to a 2019 Youth Risk and Resiliency Survey. Data also shows LGBTQIA+ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide or engage in self-harm compared to their straight, cisgender peers. LGBTQIA+ adults are also at greater risk of suicide.

The good news is that New Mexico has made important strides to help LGBTQ+ people access the care they need through a supportive environment. In collaboration with the Trevor Project, the 988 Lifeline includes specialized and inclusive emotional support to better serve the LGBTQIA+ community. LGBTQIA+ youth and adults who contact the 988 Lifeline via phone, text or chat have the option of being connected with specially trained, LGBTQIA+ competent mental health peers by phone 24/7, and via text and chat during the hours of 5 p.m. to 4 a.m. MT daily. Since the #988 Lifeline launched last July, it has helped thousands of New Mexicans find real-time, confidential emotional and substance misuse support. Now, everyone can press 3 after calling #988 to get connected to informed, culturally relevant LGBTQ+ care. Any mental health or emotional challenge is a reason to call, text or chat #988—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Learn more at www.988nm.org.