What a sample crisis line talk looks like

This will not be a word for word example, because I worry that that will be triggering for both myself and others. Instead, I'll use some of my conversations as an example, but I won't be going into anything that might be triggering.

First off, all you have to do to text a crisis line (at least the 741741) is text hello. That's it. From there you'll get a message that says "Resources and coping skills while we connect you:" with a link. "STOP to cancel convo"
"What's your crisis?"
They then go on to say they can't accept messages of over 160 characters.

From there, you describe your crisis. You don't have to be suicidal to text the hotline. You can just be in a bad place, depressed, or have something to talk about that you feel you can't talk about with anyone else. They don't judge.

There is a minute as they assign you someone.

The person will then reach out and introduce themselves. My person wrote, "Hi there, I'm Ashley, and I'm here to listen and support you through your crisis. I see you're in immense pain. It's courageous of your to reach out. Can you share more about what's going on?"

I explained more of what was going on. I explained a certain health care provider had made me feel like my depression was a personality thing and that I would not get better. This had spiraled me.

I got an immediate response. "That is not okay for her to tell you that. That would be devastating for sure."

Then, "If you feel comfortable sharing, what is your name," they will often ask this, but you don't have to tell them. If you say no, they will say something like "that's ok," and then go on.

In my case, I didn't care, so I told her.

She continued. "Thank you for sharing this with me Emery, it's great that you're reaching out for help when you notice that things are getting worse. That's really hurtful that your (redacted health care provider) is saying that your personality is what is causing you to struggle. I highly doubt this is the case."

We go on with more sympathy on her end.

She continues by asking if I have suicidal thoughts. I tell her no, but the night is still young. I have told them yes before. They are compassionate either way.

I tell her no but she asks if I have a plan for ending my life.

I tell her no again. She says she understands and just wants to make sure I'm safe.

We talk about my situation some more, then she asks what has worked for me in the past, and I tell her that distractions are very effective.

She asks me to specify.

I tell her that texting and games are most helpful.

She also suggests mindfulness and links me with a website.

I tell her thank you and we close the chat.

I feel a bit better.

Something to keep in mind -- each counselor is different. Some are more helpful for you than others. The goal of crisis lines are to take a client from a "hot place" to a "cool place" they do this by asking questions, listening, being kind, and offering resources.

If you are suffering, I highly recommend reaching out.

I may do a second post on this, but I am not sure. I think it's nice to know it's a resource that is good in a pinch and that it can really help calm you down.

It has saved my life many times, and I think it will likely do the same for you.

~ Emery