What happens when someone calls a suicide hotline?

Suicide is a major mental health phenomenon and issue in the world. In fact, the annual global-age standardized suicide rate is at 10.5 per 100,000 population, as reported by the Centers of Disease Control and other research. Even though suicide is heartbreaking and complicated, intervention is usually attainable. Recognizing the warning signs of a suicidal crisis and how to get help can save lives. Behaviors of someone who may enter into a suicidal crisis include: talking about planning a suicidal attempt or wanting to self-harm, talking about great guilt or shame, and talking about being a burden to others. Sometimes, a person may not be a harm to themselves but find themselves thinking about their death or what is considered passive suicidal ideation. If a person is experiencing suicidal ideation and wants support, they should speak to a licensed therapist. By connecting to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offered by the Mental Health Services Administration, you will receive an automatic greeting that comes with additional options. At the end of the line, you will be connected to a hotline worker who works at the nearest local crisis centers. The important thing to remember is that this phone call would be confidential support for the mental health issue or condition you would like to talk about. The crisis counselor may ask whether you intend to self-harm, or provide other resources at the end of the call. If you are a family member of someone who is suicidal, you can also connect to the crisis hotline and seek guidance from the hotline workers. The hotline can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). In addition, Crisis counselors at Crisis Text Line provide 24/7, free, and confidential emotional support through text messages. The text number for the Crisis Text Line varies by country. For mental illness-related issues, the Mental Health Services Administration offers a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information. The information service can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Last but not least, these referrals can also be obtained from The National Alliance On Mental Illness HelpLine. The HelpLine is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals, and support to people living with mental health conditions, their family members and caregivers, mental health providers, and the public. HelpLine staff and volunteers are experienced, well-trained, and able to provide guidance. The HelpLine can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).