I've used the Samaritans a lot. I am grateful to them and think that it is wonderful that people volunteer to help those in despair. That having been said, there are some things I wish would change. I e-mailed quite a few times to the U.K. I stopped because I felt that the readers only half understood me. The feedback could be sparse. (In fairness, the response time was excellent). I did contact them to let them know this, but they seemed to not want to deal with it. In the end, I decided that I couldn't pour my heart out only to receive a minimalistic or at times, uncomprehending, response. I stopped e-mailing them. I have called the various ...  Read the complete review

The samaritans site is an up to date, and helpful resource for those who either have personal struggles themselves, or who may be assisting someone else in working through some issues. It is incredibly helpful for people who find communication much more simple when writing over the internet, in comparison to chatting over the phone, or speaking to another person face to face. People who struggle to communicate, have difficulties with shyness, or embarrassment in relation to the issue they wish to discuss will find this opportunity invaluable. It is, however somewhat unreal, and no doubt could be confusing to discuss deep personal issues over the ...  Read the complete review

Dearest Friends, I have on several occasions in my younger years used/called upon the services of the "Samartians" they are a good and kindly listening ear and completely and honestly none judgemental. I first began too use their Counsel when I was a teenage youth, (in the 60's) when I realised that I was gay. But, I was in conflict with myself because I was/had been brought up a devout Roman Catholic and, the two things did not fit?. I underwent a great deal of depression and suicide attempts - prevented in the main be my telephone counsellors - and, I eventually came too terms with the diversity of my given lifestyle - not, prompted by ...  Read the complete review

I came across this site by accident, and I was quite impressed by it. I have always regarded the Samaritans very highly, they do a fantastic job in offering help and advice to everyone. The website is very good and contains a lot of good features, such as latest news and articles which could interest. You can read up on the History of the Samaritans, and read articles on the site about them. The site is very neat, well laid out and it’s easy to follow. I am glad in way that organisations like the Samaritans have spread the wings onto the Internet, it’s such a powerful medium of communication that I am sure it can be of help to ...  Read the complete review

Few people would actually admit that they had ever needed help from the Samaritans. There is a real reluctance to let anyone know that they reached such a low point that a stranger was their only lifeline. This sounds very melodramatic, I know, but it happens every day. All members of this group are trained to 'listen' and that is just what they do. They aren't there to judge, or suggest a solution. Training takes just over six weeks and trainees have to go through a structured programme including role playing games where they simulate dealing with a very distressed person over the telephone. The course also teaches members to deal with bogus calls ...  Read the complete review