Need someone to talk to? (Samaritans)

Member Name: angelic2004

Product:	Samaritans
Date:	24/02/09 (117 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Someone to turn to in your time in need, confidential, makes you think your issues through

Disadvantages: Different person replying each time

Samaritans - Well what can I say? I never thought I would have to resort to contacting them, especially with friends and family around, but when you can't get through to them about your problems or even begin to discuss it with them, then that total stranger on the other side can actually be the help you so needed in disguise.

I have always seen Samaritans advertised on leaflets, posters round various places and have always thought you could only ring them if you needed to talk, but there are times when you find it hard to talk about your problems or you can't get time alone to talk without being interrupted, then in this case it good to know that you can email them too. I prefer this method of exchanging emails as I am recording all my thoughts down in written form, I can read it over, it is kind of therapeutic to off load your problems and feel somewhat lighter. Maybe a diary is called for, just for me to write things down.

Although Samaritans does not offer advice or judge you or tell you what to actually do, they do encourage you to talk about your thoughts and feelings and explore them further. Then some how things start becoming clear to you as you find that inner strength to give you that confidence to tackle the problem and to move forward.

I have used this service on and off. When things are going well I completely forget about it and when things are so bad I end to turning back to them for that emotional support. I only found out about the email service from their website, I just goggled them looking for their number, but found it much easier to just exchange emails with Jo, it is nice know they have added a kind of friendly touch to it by just giving a simple name you can email. Although a different person is answering you emails each time, your previous emails are kept with them so they can refer to them, and so I guess it's a good thing. I would actually prefer it if the same person answered back but I know this is not possible. I think some people are good at this than others when replying back you can just tell when someone has made the effort to reply in so much detail, makes you feel like that they actually care. Replies usually come on the day or next day, but by the time you have written your email you do feel somewhat better and when the reply comes, it really does makes you think.

Hats off to the volunteers who take time out to dedicate their time towards this organisation as without it many people would feel so lost and alone in their time in need.

Summary: Friendly support just when you need it.