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What do you do when a person refuses to call the suicide hotline even if you continue to tell them to?

1 Answers
Last Updated: 06/29/2020 at 5:53pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
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Stacy Overton, PhD.

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I am an enthusiastic life-long learner and also a professor of counseling. I have a passion for peoples stories and helping to guide and empower the human spirit.

Top Rated Answers
Aidisnotapotato
June 29th, 2020 5:53pm
Many people will refuse to call the suicide hotline out of fear. Some people, especially teens, have monitored phone logs, which can be scary. Thoughts of other people finding out can lead to hesitation. I know that this was the case for me- especially after they sent a social worker to my school when I was in 10th grade to make sure I was safe. They pulled me out of class, which made my teachers and classmates ask questions. Those with fears or similar experiences might hesitate more than others to ask for help, especially by phone. Many people aren't aware of the hotline's online chat room, though, which can be opened in an incognito tab, allowing an extra layer of confidentiality. If a person is refusing to call, refer them to this website. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ After referral to multiple sites and sources, it might be best to leave it to them to make that next step. It is always good to be there for others, but your mental health must come first. If threats of suicide are made, it is also possible to reach out yourself, and they can guide you from there.