You should never have to go through a severe crisis on your own. Whether you are feeling that you may hurt yourself or that you are hopeless, talking to someone is the best way to relax and calm yourself.
Some people may hesitate to call a crisis hotline when they are in this situation, but we’ve broken everything down step-by-step so you know just what to expect if you do decide to dial that number.
1. You will get connected to a trained staff member.
When you first contact a crisis hotline, you may have to wait on hold until someone is available to take your call. However, these hotlines are usually fully staffed and wait times are fairly minimal. You will soon get connected to a trained staff member.
You can choose from multiple types of hotlines. There are various non-profit groups that specialize in different forms of crisis management, such as suicide hotlines and hotlines that specialize in LGBTQ concerns.
2. They will listen to your concerns.
Once you get connected to a trained professional, the individual will then ask you about your problem. He or she will listen as you explain what you are going through. Once they have learned a little more about your current situation, they may ask follow-up questions related to your current state of mind.
3. They can help you find local services in your area.
You need to keep in mind that many of these hotlines are located at various call centers around the country. The person on the other end of the phone may not be in the same region, but they’re equipped to help you locate local services in your area.
After assessing your current situation, they can offer recommendations, such as a local suicide prevention center, local clinics, counselors, or therapists. They can also help you find inpatient treatment if you are dealing with an emergency.
4. They will only call the police in an emergency situation.
Some people are afraid to call crisis hotlines because they are worried that the hotline staff will phone the police. This only happens in extreme circumstances where the caller is acting erratic and suicidal. If the hotline staff feels that this is an emergency situation and that the caller will not receive treatment on their own, they may choose to call the police. Though, this is very rare. If you appear to be mostly in sound mind, they can only call a hospital or police with your permission.
There are dozens of quality call centers and crisis hotlines. They are incredibly beneficial to the health and well-being of the public. Often, when someone is going through a crisis or feeling suicidal, they simply need someone to talk to. From there, they can realize that they have a problem and seek additional treatment.
If you feel suicidal, hopeless, alone, afraid, or out of your head, you should consider calling a crisis hotline. The person on the other line sincerely wants to help. Sometimes, talking through your problem will help you gain perspective. Never go through this alone. Contact a crisis hotline if you think you need help. Do not hesitate.
If you need help with overcoming alcoholism and drug abuse, consider joining a drug rehabilitation center. You can even choose an inpatient or outpatient drug rehab to see which drug treatment option would suit you best.
If you or someone you know need help with overcoming alcoholism and drug abuse, consider visiting our directory of treatment centers or call 866-606-0182 to see which treatment option would suit you best.
