When Samaritans are too busy

[TheOrigBrave]

Had a bad day. Got overwhelmed driving home so stopped to call samaritans. No answer. Drove a bit further and had to stop as unsafe to drive. So so hard to not get even more desperate when they're so busy you don't reach someone.
Never feel able to call RL local friends when I'm in that state.
They did answer in the end and i spoke long enough to be calm enough to carry on.
I just feel so alone at times. I had emailed 2 of my MH supporters but feel they're getting impatient with me.

I'm here OP.

Do you ever email Samaritans?

Not a solution of course but at least you have a chance to get it all out.

Hope you have a better day tomorrow.

You can email or text Samaritans too.

Sorry they were busy. I guess there's so much pressure on them with cuts to mental health care. No wonder they're always looking for new volunteers.

I'm glad the person you spoke with was able to help.

I do email them, and they've been great, but what helps me most is immediate talking, by someone who doesn't know me, won't judge, won't try and find solutions and is fine with me being unable to talk through tears.
When I can't get through I also then feel sad for all the other people in despair at that moment.

I can't stop crying at the moment. I'm also feeling stupid and that it's no wonder I feel like this because I stopped taking my meds cold turkey 4 weeks ago. This is the first major falling apart since then so don't think it's withdrawal but a sign that I still need the support the meds gave me.

How often can you not get through, OP?

It's so frustrating that genuine people like you can't get through when there's others abusing the service so badly.

I think I often call at peak times - late in the evening or at weekends so they're pushed. Only a few times have I given up entirely, usually I am on hold for a bit.
They are amazing people and have probably saved me from doing something stupid.
Do people really misuse samaritans?

I'm so glad to hear it.

Yes lots of sexual calls unfortunately. Danger of being a well publicised free phone number I suppose.

Bastards!

Not a great sleep but I am feeling a little less wobbly. LOTS to do this weekend in advance of overseas work trip.

I got through to Samaritans last night but tried SANE first maybe try them next time