What to do when the suicide hotlines don't pick up your call?

[Mister Skittles]

So a while ago, I was outside alone in the dark, at night and felt bad thoughts in my mind. I just wanted to talk to someone professional so I didn't do anything stupid but they we're always occupied. What can you do when the hotline is constantly full and you just need to talk to someone?

 

[releasespieces]

I recommend against it anyway. They can and will send social workers to your home at your expense, even if you tell them you are okay. I got a bill for 1000 USD.

 

[Mister Skittles]

I recommend against it anyway. They can and will send social workers to your home at your expense, even if you tell them you are okay. I got a bill for 1000 USD.

They would be breaking the law since the one I attempted to call had privacy and anonymity listed in there website.

 

[lukas19]

All the suicide and mental illness helpline are crap in GB.

 

[releasespieces]

They would be breaking the law since the one I attempted to call had privacy and anonymity listed in there website.

They can trace your call. If they think you are in serious danger, they will send someone. They can face more legal action if they are linked to your suicide. Not saying situations don't vary, but just something to keep in mind when you call those places.

 

[fuzzy-clown]

If you feel like you're about to kill yourself and you don't want to, you can call 911 or go to the ER.

 

[bunnii]

Have you tried a different hotline? There are at least a few different ones in my area.

 

[Shadowlord900]

Meh, personally I wouldn't bother with suicide hotlines. Even their words of sympathy can be rather poor at times. I wouldn't even call them professionals, most don't know how to talk to depressed people and properly cheer them up.

Ironically I find this place far better if you need someone to just cheer you up. I know that sounds risky because of all the talk of CTB methods that go on around here, but most members that are sensible never encourage anyone who they think are acting rashly or is simply on the fence. Plus I just think people here in general are not only far more sympathetic, but their words of sympathy are far better than the so called 'professionals' from suicide hotlines and therapies.

But if you're worried if posting a topic looking for someone to cheer you up might agitate a few aggressive people here (it has unfortunately happened before in recent months), there's a sub-forum called Recovery that might be best to post it here.

 

[Unending]

I imagine that there are several numbers you could call. I think a quick google search could hopefully give you more resources.

 

[figtree]

look up something called a "warmline" (vs hotline) and check their policy of involving cops. there are a few that do not. they probably have a lower volume of calls too so you might get an answer.

 

[Mister Skittles]

Have you tried a different hotline? There are at least a few different ones in my area.

It search very thoroughly since I was just desperate to get a hold of something. I'll be more thorough if it happens again, thank you.

 

[Viranamari]

Frankly, suicide hotlines have a long waiting time and in my opinion, they do not help. If you do want to call someone, I suggest using another hotline. Personally, I write letters to myself so that when I am feeling suicidal, I read them and feel at least a bit calmer. And if you are really very worried, go to the police or an emergency ward in an asylum. I hope this helps.

 

[Sovereign]

Personally, when I was really sunk deep in a hole of despair, when I called the hotline google pushed on me when I googled how to CTB effectively, the line was occupied and there was no response. The fact that this happened was like a wake-up call. I don't know how or why, but just hearing the voice-mail voice tell me that the line was occupied was like a light in my darkness. It was the thing that got me going a little longer. I don't know if I'm fully crazy and alone in this feeling, but that's my experience with it.
If this isn't the case for you and you fall deeper in the hole of self-hatred or whatever causes your immense need for CTB, you can always try a different line. Or you could call the authorities. You could try to find a public place and try to talk with people there. All I do hope is that life will find you well in the future my friend. Don't give up hope!