topic do helplines really help? in Treatments, health professionals and therapies

do helplines really help?

startingnew — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 10:05:33 GMT

ive tried many different helplines and ive only actually been helped a few timesbut most of the time they just say to keep using the distractions and coping strategies that ive been using and to speak to my psychologist

wow what a great help- if i was doing that and it was helping me i wouldnt have rung now would i?

wondering what others experiences are?

do helplines really help?

The_Possum — Mon, 01 May 2017 04:38:34 GMT

Hey there

I agree with you. I've called them a few times and they were good in the respect of, I didn't feel alone momentarily which was comforting. Especially as I have anxiety, talking on the phone did keep it at bay.

But if you're looking for more than that, then no they aren't really helpful and really it's not their role to provide more than that. If you're looking for a deeper connection and support, that comes from a psychologist. The helplines won't achieve that.

Many of the times I've called, it's a general chat, and it helps me when I'm panicking so they get me through that patch when my mind is racing etc

They will often refer to self care strategies I can implement etc

There's only so much someone can do on the phone, if you're really bad they will send emergency services to your place though!

Goodluck x

do helplines really help?

blondguy — Mon, 01 May 2017 05:06:35 GMT

Hey SN

Good to see you!

The helplines are good value.

The Possum is spot on with "if you're looking for more than that, then no they aren't really helpful
and really it's not their role to provide more than that. If you're
looking for a deeper connection and support, that comes from a
psychologist. The helplines won't achieve that."

Frequent ongoing counseling is still the best bet SN.

Possum mentioned they are great for a general chat to help during heavy anxiety and they can provide us with a buffer so to speak.

Good post SN 🙂

My Best

Paul