I volunteer on a mental health telephone support line Fri nights, and this past Fri. was brutal. I had 2 very difficult callers. I can't really say what the calls were about, but one caller made me very angry as he disparaged a couple of groups of people which I belong to, and of course I couldn't express that anger. The other call was very triggery for me and brought up all kinds of abuse memories. I found it so hard not to just listen, try to be supportive, and not give the caller advice. We're not allowed to give advice.

Normally I really like working the lines, most of the callers are nice and greatful for us listenning, and usually I can relate and be empathetic, but with these 2 I found it very hard to remain impartial and supportive.

I don't know how professional therapists do it.

--splitimage