How to Work on a Suicide Hotline

Working on a Suicide Hotline

Being a suicide hotline volunteer can be emotionally difficult and is not for everyone, but it can also be profoundly rewarding. Working with the public to provide support and assistance to people in need is as gratifying as it is challenging. If you are interested in volunteering, follow these steps to get started.

Instructions

Familiarize yourself with the available resources. Before you can help someone contemplating suicide, it's essential to have an understanding of the available support services. Read up on suicide prevention strategies and become familiar with the scope of assistance available—for example, medical, psychological, and social services—in your locality.

Complete any required training. Depending on the service provider, you may be asked to participate in a training program or take an online course. Check the organization's requirements and make sure you complete any necessary training in a timely manner.

Have some face-to-face counseling experience. It is beneficial to have at least some experience with face-to-face counseling before volunteering for a suicide hotline. If you don't have much experience, talk to a mental health professional about the best way to get some.

Set up an appointment and complete an application. Once you have the necessary experience and have fulfilled any training requirements, contact the organization you’d like to volunteer for and inquire about the application process. Depending on the program, your application may include personal questions such as age, education, and past job experience.

Participate in a screening interview. Most organizations will require an interview to screen applicants and determine their qualifications and commitment to the service. Make sure you arrive on time and pay attention to the interviewer’s instructions.

Read and understand the confidentiality policy. Organizations offering suicide hotline services use strict confidentiality protocols to ensure client safety and privacy. Make sure you read and understand these policies before beginning your service.

Work your designated shifts. You may be asked to commit to a minimum number of hours per month or work predetermined shifts. Show up on time, focus on the caller throughout the conversation, and be respectful and supportive.

Working on a Suicide Hotline

Working on a suicide hotline can be an incredibly rewarding, yet challenging experience. If you are looking to work on a suicide hotline, here is what you need to know.

Step One: Understand Your Role

It is important to understand what your role and responsibilities are as a suicide hotline volunteer. While the exact duties may vary from hotline to hotline, many volunteers provide a listening ear, emotional support, as well as provide resources for people struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. You must also learn to identify and respond to signs of an immediate risk of danger.

Step Two: Receive Training

The majority of suicide prevention hotlines offer training for volunteers. Typical training sessions may cover topics such as active listening techniques, crisis intervention protocols, and psychological first-aid. Some hotlines may also provide additional certification specific to suicide prevention in order to better equip volunteers to provide the most effective help.

Step Three: Care for Yourself

It is important that you take care of yourself as well. The phone calls and conversations you are exposed to can often be overwhelming, so it is vital to make sure you are able to manage stress and practice self-care. This can be as simple as taking time to yourself to refresh so you can better support others.

Tips:

• Always maintain boundaries and your own safety - never agree to meet with a client.
• Be mindful that the conversations you have are confidential.
• Join a support group of other volunteers for emotional and moral support.
• Engage with your community’s suicide prevention team if volunteer opportunities are available.

How to Work on a Suicide Hotline

A suicide hotline is a critical service that offers support to those who are in distress or experiencing suicidal thoughts. Anyone who is considering taking their own life deserves to have an empathetic and understanding voice to talk to. Working on a suicide hotline can be a rewarding and life-saving experience. Here are some tips on how to work on a suicide hotline.

Step 1: Learn the Basics

Before you start working on a suicide hotline, it’s important to become familiar with the basics. You'll need to learn about the supportive listening skills and resources that you can offer those who are in need. Become familiar with responding to common questions and scenarios. Research the suicide hotline's policies and procedures.

Step 2: Obtain Training

As a suicide hotline volunteer or employee, you must receive some type of specialized training. This might include participating in webinars or seminars from experienced professionals in the field. Additionally, you may receive instruction on suicide crisis protocol and responding to emergency hotlines.

Step 3: Develop Compassion and Understanding

Working on a suicide hotline requires patience, understanding, and empathy. It’s important to be patient with those who call in and remain non-judgmental. Maintain a calm and steady voice while communicating effectively. Be a compassionate listener who provides a safe space for callers to vent and express their feelings.

Step 4: Stay Informed

It's important to stay informed on current research on suicide prevention and resources for those who are struggling. You should also research the local laws and statutes that impact how you respond to callers. Additionally, keep up to date with any updates to the suicide hotline’s policies and procedures.

Step 5: Take Care of Yourself

Working on a suicide hotline can be draining, both emotionally and physically. It's important to practice self-care and take care of your own well-being. Make sure to take breaks regularly. Find time in your day to do something that you enjoy. Discuss your experience with a mental health professional or a reliable friend.