This is going to sound very strange, but over the years a close friend of mine has probably dialed 911 at least 10 times. She has given permission for me to mention this in my blog. Let me explain. These calls have involved her either witnessing something questionable or actually being in the middle of a crisis. For example, just twice this past year she has called 911 while in a store due to witnessing customers become unreasonably agitated and one time even physical with an employee.

I write this to say, that for her, having a hotline ready to receive her at any time has provided great comfort. Each time she has called 911, someone has answered. She has never received a busy signal and has never been placed on hold. Moreover, she has always been told next steps. These very simple attributes of a hotline have given her stability in what can feel like uncontrollable environments.

While I have never dialed 988 or the former suicide hotline, I can imagine that this hotline does the same. There is something so calming yet empowering about dialing a number and knowing help is on the other side. I envision that when it feels there is little else you can do, knowing you can dial a number and talk to someone engenders hope.

If you are struggling, ask yourself:

1. Who is my support system? Who can I call when I need help?
2. What are my calming strategies? What can I do in this moment to calm myself?
3. What needs to change? Are there short-term and long-term things I need to change in my life that will promote peace and reduce stress?

We all experience crises in life. The bigger question is how will we weather them and who will support us? If you are experiencing depression, anxiety or any other stressor we are here to help. We will provide the support and skills you need to learn, grow and find peace and stability in daily life. And this peace and stability will ultimately lead to new hope and greater joy. So don’t delay. Please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services today at 407-443-8862 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced psychotherapists.