I agree with what everyone else is saying. Crisis lines can really help, and they are accustomed to a wide range of responses. Some of us maybe for now can only cry and listen to them, maybe we get out a word or two. Another time maybe we can talk and hear more.

The folks who work crisis lines want to help, they want to assist us. They are a great resource ready for us to use. They know the power of simply being with us, listening, and they know what questions to ask.

For me, it works to just go ahead and say whatever it is to the crisis worker on the other end. "I feel like %#@&#!." "I feel hopeless." "I feel worthless, like I don't even deserve your help, your time." "Help." "All I can do is cry, I am so depressed, I need help."

I've used crisis lines often in the past. My symptoms being flashbacks, fear, anxiety, grief, disassociation, and more. Occasionally the worker and I just don't click at all, yet I use what I can get. Other times, it's exactly what I need.

Often when I call I don't really fully know what is going on with me. By talking things through, getting another perspective, some light is shown, and I possibly even find some answers. I'll always recall the worker who said "I think your meds are doing this, you are having side effects." She turned out to be exactly right.

Sarah