Oregon crisis lines surge amid presidential election
PORTLAND, Ore. () — Though the 2024 presidential election is now over, its toll on mental health is already showing.
Oregon crisis hotlines saw a huge spike in calls before and after Election Day. Now they're stepping up to try and offer people hope.
Lines for Life runs most of Oregon's 988 crisis and suicide lifelines with free, confidential counseling.
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Tuesday's election results ushered in a second non-consecutive term for Donald Trump. But no matter who you voted for, the crisis line counselors offer help, said Greg Borders, with Lines for Life Portland.
Borders said rising political tension is fueling division and fear on both sides of the political spectrum. However, he said the LGBTQ+ community has been particularly impacted.
"People are really concerned about the election and what happens next and all the unknowns," Borders said.
This is part of a national trend as The Trevor Project saw a 200% increase in election-related crisis calls from November 3-4 compared to just a few days prior. The non-profit organization provides free 24/7 crisis services for LGBTQ+ youth.
The Trevor Project said 90% of LGBTQ+ people reported politics impacting their well-being. 72% more transgender and nonbinary people attempted suicide.
With services overwhelmed, The Trevor Project is directing people to the hotline for help.
Borders said his Lines for Life team is ready to answer in 20 seconds or less, offering compassion and hope regardless of your political views.
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"988 is available to anybody, we don't really... it doesn't matter what political affiliation you have... if you are feeling like you're in distress if you're feeling upset, if you're feeling stressed, anywhere in the gamut really, we want to talk with you," Borders said.
If you're struggling, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Support is available in Spanish and specialized help is available for veterans, LGBTQ+ youth and those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
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