What are other alternatives to the suicide prevention hotline?

I think you’re on the right track with the more targeted hotlines. If the one doesn’t work, call another. For example, here are two hotlines specifically for people who have been affected by violence. Here is one for dealing with (difficult) family relationships. Here is one on parenting.

The suicide hotlines are likely overwhelmed, and their name implies you can only call when you’re feeling suicidal. Luckily, there’s so many different hotlines with qualified counselors. Try calling when you still feel calm(-ish).

If all else fails, write out a conversation. Imagine someone wise and kind that you know, and allow “their” responses to influence you. You might try a workbook, too. This one is the gold standard.

Good luck, @SergeantQueen. [Hugs]

Thank you @longgone
I will look into the workbook. I have a bullet journal so maybe I can combine the two. Yeah, I was feeling suicidal but not like in the sense that I wanted to harm myself in that moment. It was sort of me being aware that I needed to get help before it escalated I guess. But because I wasn’t to the self harm stage they couldn’t talk.
I use RAINN the most now.

The best alternative for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is to get into regular therapy with a licensed individual. This can take time. There are times when the first person you try to connect with will not be a good fit for the kind of therapy you may need or want. It’s OK to “shop around” for a therapist.

The best thing a therapist will do for you is give you someone to help you through those times when you’re not suicidal, but you’re feeling very low. The fact you establish a regular rapport with the therapist means you are building a relationship over time, and that therapist will get to know you well and can help you work through your issues to get to the core of why you’re hurting. A hotline cannot do that. They only offer band-aids when what you might need is long-term care.

All the best to you.

@Hawaii_Jake I’m working on support groups because I’ve been to 4 different therapists and I feel like 1 on 1 may not be for me at all.

@SergeantQueen I’m glad to hear you’re working on getting into support groups. That’s another way to get very effective help for ongoing difficulties.

I’m sorry to hear you had a bad experience with one-to-one therapy. That’s too bad. I wish you better luck with groups.