Suicide Hotline Manager
CantSay, US
Female, 0
I supervise and train telephone operators for a suicide hotline. In addition to answering phones myself, I am also available when questions about protocol come up or if a phone operator is having trouble dealing with the emotions being expressed by a caller. Like many non-profits, we are now in danger of being shut down because of budget cuts.
It isn't necessarily to be able to relate to a caller to provide emotional support. In fact it's better if you can listen from an objective standpoint. It can be difficult to keep focused on the person you're speaking with if your own stuff is coming up.
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The most common theme -- by far -- is loneliness. This sometimes stems from psychological issues that make it difficult for the individual to form social relationships. Often, though, the loneliness is a result of having lost a loved one or suffering a trauma that separates the individual from their social circle or they simply feel that their thoughts are too unacceptable to share with the people they love.
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Anyone who is feeling suicidal should call a hotline, speak to a friend or family member, or go to the nearest emergency room. This isn't a counseling forum.
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It happens on occasion. It's kind of annoying when it happens because you have to take every call seriously and really be 100% sure it's a prank. When it's completely clear what's going on, we'll just hang up. We don't call the cops.
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Antiques Dealer
Does a piece's value increase significantly if it has a cool "back-story" to go along with it?
Fashion Model
Do you feel objectified when you're standing around in skimpy outfits?
Security / Bodyguard
Are you expected to take a bullet that's meant for someone you're guarding?
Basically you just contact a hotline near you (google "suicide prevention hotline" in your area) and let them know you are looking for a volunteer or paid position. I get paid, but a lot of hotlines are primarily volunteer. You don't need a particular degree at my hotline; we do have a lot of people who are studying social work or psychology. If you don't get an immediate response from a hotline after leaving a voicemail or email, remember these are nonprofits and the administrative side tends to be undermanned, so don't hesitate to contact them after a few days.
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If you look at earlier questions, you'll see that it depends if the hotline is anonymous or not. If it's anonymous, then no you wouldn't because the call can't be traced. If the hotline isn't anonymous, then yes you would call 911.
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I can't recall that happening off the top of my head. I think a non-anonymous hotline would be required to report a specific, credible threat to the police. An anonymous hotline wouldn't be able to do so, but if the caller specified his (or hers!) or the victim's full name or address, then yeah, there probably would be a legal and moral obligation to do so.
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