Calling The Samaritans; what happens?

[MrsBertMacklin]

I've got them on my emergency contact list, but what happens if I call when I'm struggling? Do they start the conversation, help talk you down? I've read that they can't offer you advice, everything else I've read is vague.

they post you in directions of organisation's to help simple.....ring them xx

whats up xx

Ime they let the caller lead the conversation. It's about having someone kind to listen.
I don't know if they talk you down or not, I haven't been in that exact situation.

Thanks Itchy, so if I call and say I'm spiralling, they will help me talk through how I feel, rather than why?

You lead the conversation, but you will be prompted with gentle questions if you can't find the words. If you want to sit there in silence for a while, that is fine.

It's true that advice is never given because the listener doesn't know you or your life and only you can decide what the best course of action is. But as mentioned before, they can give you the number of other organisations to call who might be able to offer more specialist advice.

Thanks Samaritan1.

They should do what is called active listening - much as pps said. They should let you lead the conversation, not interrupt but ask questions or prompt, let you sit in silence if you want (and cry should that happen). They definitely shouldn't offer advice, or personal opinions.
talk through how I feel, rather than why? they should let you talk about what you want and not pressure you to talk about what you don't - analysing your childhood or traumatic memories, for example. I guess they might ask why but your saying you don't want to get into that should be respected.
Not all Samaritans are equal. If you get one you don't find helpful/ click with, try someone else.

Not sure if you mean you feel suicidal? You talked about 'talk you down'? They won't tell you not to do it. In fact they will be on the phone with someone while they end their life. That said if you feel you need help to keep safe right now and want to talk through your rl options, they should do that.