I have also called a hotline in the past for the person on the other end to tell me there was nothing I could do and that she couldn't help me because she didn't think I could be talked out of it.

So grateful that I happened to not be alone that night, but the experience completely ruined my faith in suicide hotlines.

I also want to add that I have called twice in my lifetime--the police were called the first time. They came banging on my door like I was committing a heinous crime complete with yelling at me and telling me there would be consequences for not opening the door.

I am wondering how many of the people in the comments saying that this article was dangerous have felt suicidal or made an attempt. Not only did the calls not help, but I avoided any help for years because of these exact instances.

As someone who has fought suicidal thoughts for over a decade, I feel really validated knowing it wasn't just me.

Thank you,

Ash