Has anyone tried these mental health lines?

DigbyDevon said:

Just to be clear to prevent confusion, I am NOT suicidal but just felt very low last night

I appreciate the clarification and wish to state that you have every right to use those services even without being suicidal. It is a commonly held belief among us with depression that those services are for “others worse off than me,” but there’s a point where even if you don’t imminently plan to hurt yourself or others you could still need help.

I’m in the States, so I used 988 when I made a serious plan while at work. I sat in my car during my lunch break and was immediately connected with a woman who listened to my plan and helped figure out a way to make the plan less convenient. I don’t know how likely it would have been for me to attempt if I didn’t connect and I’m very glad I didn’t pull through because - among a ton of other horrible things - I would have caused an incredible amount of trauma for a certain worker who would have been the only one able to intervene. Not to mention my dad worked in the same building for a different shift, so that probably would have added an extra layer of disturbance to his life, too.

While I was lucky to get in touch with someone via 988 quickly enough to fit in my lunch break, she did promise a follow up call in a couple days that never happened. I suppose I didn’t really need it (I mean, I’m still here, apparently), but it’s always made me worried that someone that actually does need a follow up might not get one.

Thank you so much for your thoughtful response, it really does mean a lot. You have also responded to a few of my posts or comments these last few days and I have found them really helpful, thank you!

That is very true, I think there is a mental block though with some phone lines as you never think you are "unwell enough" to use them. 

I'm so glad to hear you are still here and they helped you. I always find when I feel low that better times do come, it's just a rocky wave on the ship. 

Can I ask how the helplines are in the US? Is there many? 

To my knowledge there are two main ones: 988 and The Trevor Project. I believe there are others, but I’m only aware of those two.

988 is a federal program. As far as I’m aware, that’s potentially a good thing - since that means it could have significant financial backing - but that’s likely also a very bad thing. I know within the last year the Trump Administration removed all specialization in LGBTQ+ individuals in order to cut some of the funding. Yes, they made it clear that veterans would still be supported, but LGBTQ+ is a huge demographic driven towards suicidal ideation whether you like them or not. Also, as with all federal programs these days, government shutdowns and fluctuations in power between the two main parties means it’s never really safe financially.

The Trevor Project is specifically focused on the LGBTQ+ community and is not a federal or state program. I don’t know much personally about how effective they are, but judging by what little research I’ve done they are reliable. Honestly, even though I’m “straight-passing,” I almost considered calling them instead of 988. I imagine they would be just fine helping non-LGBTQ+ individuals, so long as their service can be helpful. I’m pretty sure The Trevor Project is at least extended into Mexico and Canada, so I wouldn’t be surprised if they can support calls from the UK as well.

I’m so glad my response was helpful! Sorry it has taken so long to respond, I usually only get on here regularly when work is slow lol. However, if you do need someone to talk to, I am also available via direct message.

Hi, thank you so much for your response. Don't worry about the time it has taken, it sometimes takes me a few days to respond depending on the week. 

I am shocked that the US only seems to have 2 major helplines, it is good though the trevor project has tried to step in and replace the shortfall by the Trump admin's cuts. 

Over here we don't seem to have many government backed helplines, 911 seems more about arranging help rather than a cool down line in my limited understanding. Hopefully I am wrong though. 

If it is possible I might take you up on that offer to DM you if that is okay? I was also wondering if my employment search may be helpful to your job e.g. I have found some tips which have helped land interviews. 

Hi, thank you so much for your response. Don't worry about the time it has taken, it sometimes takes me a few days to respond depending on the week. 

I am shocked that the US only seems to have 2 major helplines, it is good though the trevor project has tried to step in and replace the shortfall by the Trump admin's cuts. 

Over here we don't seem to have many government backed helplines, 911 seems more about arranging help rather than a cool down line in my limited understanding. Hopefully I am wrong though. 

If it is possible I might take you up on that offer to DM you if that is okay? I was also wondering if my employment search may be helpful to your job e.g. I have found some tips which have helped land interviews.