If the thought of reaching out to a hotline comes to you during a crisis -- don’t hesitate. But that’s easier said than done (like most things). Sometimes you can’t tell if your crisis is crisis-y enough.

The word “suicide” is loaded, it’s foreboding and intimidating. This is why many people are afraid to reach out to a suicide hotline -- they’re unsure of what might happen. A breakdown of the call can easy your mind and make reaching out seem do-able.

Figure out how to contact a suicide hotline.

There are many ways to contact a suicide hotline. There are many chatrooms, blogs, and forums dedicated to providing crisis assistance. Websites like 7 Cups Of Tea reduces the stress of talking over the phone for easy, accessible aid.

There are also many different hotlines available to call 24/7 that are tailor made for complex situations you may be going through. There’s the Trevor Project that caters specifically to the LGBTQ community. There’s a hotline specific to runaways, trans individuals, and individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.

Who is on the other line?

Suicide hotlines are usually staffed by trained counseling personnel, but it can depend on the hotline. There are some suicide hotlines operated by volunteers who may only have minimal training.

Those at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, for instance, are highly skilled and trained trauma counselors from your area. Hotlines that are crisis specific, such as those aiding veterans or LGBT individuals, are generally trained only in the issues facing those populations.

Will the person I speak to call the authorities?

Most of the time, no. If you are requesting emergency help, or the operator feels as though you are in immediate danger, they will do everything they can to gain permission to send help. There is no system in which to measure your crisis ¾ your safety and livelihood is a hotline’s priority.