What to do if you have nowhere to turn

[Hensley258]

I wish I could sticky this.

Often times people post here not knowing how to get treatment for severe Depression and Anxiety.
Sometimes the problems are insurance related and also money related, and sometimes people just don't really understand how to take that first step toward treatment.

I was one of these people many years ago. I had no clue how or where to start.
I let my problem get worse until I became activly suicidal. At that point as I was flipping thru the phone book I came upon a Suicide Hotline.

I made the call and was very supprised at how understanding the person on the phone was. (little did I know most of the workers that work these phones, were also former sufferers)

The person on the phone worked to find me treatment.

What I'm saying is that these hotlines have people with a wealth of information on local treatment facilities that can help you. They will work to find you treatment.

You do not have to be ready to commit suicide just to call. They are for anyone suffering from a severe mental illness that needs help finding treatment.

Every city in the country has a local hotline. Just check the phone book or internet for one in your area.

Thanks.

[Hensley258]

I know I used to think the same thing too.

A lot of people are afrade to call these hot lines because they are worried that the police will come and take them away to the funny farm.

It's really not like that at all. These hot lines are a great way for people with limited resources to find help and get treatment. These people will find you help one way or another.

You don't have to be ready to kill yourself just to call.

[John_jb1]

Hey Hensley,

Wow I must say, even though suicide lines are obvious, I've never actually thought of trying one.
Everytime someone said the word "suicide line" or anything ending with "line" I'd instantly think of it as some kind of scam.

So I guess I should apologise and move my prejudice a side by thanking these people.

Thanks

- John -