What do the counsellors at lifeline actually do?

Question

Wouldn't you think that a person who is on the brink of suicide has already thought about all their options. I know that this service should be there just in case, but how many people would actually use it? I heard about someone recently who rang lifeline with all her problems, and the counsellor said "what are you going to do?".

Answer 1

Many times just being able to talk to someone makes a difference. No people have not always thoughtof all solutions and options.  Sometimes the urge to suicide is strong and clouds thinking.  Sometimes the person just needs an immediate lifeline - something to hold onto to get through the intensity of the feeling.  You can be pretty sure if the person is calling such a service they are wanting someone to help them find a reason to stay alive.   Counselors are trained to respond in ways that cause someone to think of options.  Some callers do call mainly for attention too.  The "What are you going to do?" question is not as dumb as it sounds"  because there are times when a question like that will cause someone to realize there are things they can do,that they have options and choces.  Many ppl who think of suicide and call for help do not see another way out.   Some call places like 1800suicide knowing that the service can even call 911 for them to get them medical help when in some areas calling themself would only get them jail or nothing.

Your friend who is so badly burned may find that a different kind of counseling is helpful to him. .Of course a counselor can not give him a new body but they may be able to help him find ways to deal with the physical and emotional pain.  They may be able to help him find ways he can have a productive life even with the burn scars and pain.  

Answer 2

I know many people with only 1 degree in psychology who are so f*ckd up, but qualify to work on phone lines. Still, really, perhaps most people on the brink just need someone to listen.