The Trevor Project was founded by the creators of the 1994 short film "TREVOR," which follows a young boy as he comes to terms with his sexuality while dealing with prejudices from people within his life. Over the last 20 years, they have focused on providing "crisis intervention and suicide prevention services" to LGBTQ+ youth (from ages 13-24). They are able to save the lives of these youths in crisis because of donations from the public. This life saving organization is also supported by many celebrities including Tyler Oakley, Lady Gaga, Jane Lynch, Ellen DeGeneres.
Three means of immediate communication with a support volunteer are offered on their site: TrevorLifeline, TrevorChat, and TrevorText.
The Lifeline (866-488-7386) is available 24/7 year round, even on holidays.
The Chat is an online chat room that you can access once you have filled out a brief form which covers your basic information along with what's upsetting you. Once you have submitted the form, a TrevorChat counselor comes on the other end (wait times depend on how busy they are); while you're waiting, they offer a link that has an animated gif containing a breathing exercise. The Chat is open seven days a week from 3pm-10pm EST.
Lastly, the Text option gives LGBTQ+ youth the comfort of texting someone through their phone. You simply text "Trevor" to 1-202-304-1200 in order to contact a counselor on the other end. This service is offered Monday-Friday 3pm-10pm EST.
They also have a free LGBTQ+ inclusive social media site called TrevorSpace. This website allows LGBTQ+ youth (ages13-24) to interact in a safe environment with each other.
The Trevor Project focuses heavily on informing the public whether that be with their annual suicide statistics (as it relates to sexuality and gender identity) or teaming up with various universities across the country to conduct research on the relationship between LGBTQ+ youth and suicide. They also offer "suicide prevention training and resources" on their website and ways in which you can volunteer to be support for individuals who reach out to the Lifeline, Chat, or Text.
When looking at suicide statistics relating to LGBTQ+ youth, it's utterly heartbreaking. This group is "five times as likely to attempt suicide" compared to people their age who don't identify as LGBTQ+. According to Science Daily, "30% of transgender youth" have had "at least one suicide attempt." Within 2017, The Trevor Project received the highest amount of calls, breaking their own record, due to the current political climate; events such as Donald Trump's election and the transgender military ban have fueled the increase in calls.
Now more than ever LGBTQ+ youth need a safe place to express themselves and their fears. To donate to The Trevor Project and help save lives, visit their website.
If you or someone you know needs help, please click here to see a full list of resources and links.
