Learning to Listen

Debunking Myths About Suicide Loss Support

There are many misconceptions about grief and suicide loss. Let’s set the record straight.  Myth: People who lose a loved one to suicide should be left alone to grieve. Fact: Support from others, including peer survivors, can be essential to healing.  Myth: Talking about suicide makes things worse. Fact: Open conversations about suicide loss help survivors process…

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Support When You Need It

Tools for Tough Moments: How to Set Boundaries

We’ve all had moments where we know we need to set a boundary, but the words don’t come easily. Maybe we’ve tried before and it didn’t go the way we hoped, or maybe we find ourselves explaining, justifying, or even pleading while hoping the other person will understand and change their behavior.  One of the most common challenges with boundaries is this: we often try to set them by telling someone else…

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Tools for Tough Moments: Why Boundaries are Important

We’ve all been there where we’re caught in a moment where something doesn’t feel quite right, but we’re not sure how to respond. Maybe someone is asking more of us than we can give. Maybe we feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or even a little resentful. And still, we hesitate. We wonder: Should I say yes? Should I say no? What will happen if I disappoint someone?  Setting…

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Tools for Tough Moments: How to be There for Someone

Written by: Michelle Gatewood, Deputy Executive Director of CONTACT Care Line. Michelle first joined the organization as Clinical Training Manager, where she supported new crisis staff in building the skills and confidence needed to serve callers, texters, and chatters. Imagine it’s late in the evening and someone you care about is overwhelmed, emotional, pacing, and saying they “can’t…

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How to Support Those in Crisis: 14 Essential Books for Counselors

CONTACT Care Line has hand-selected these resources based on the essential materials we use in our own counselor education and crisis-line training. These fourteen titles are considered the gold standard in our field, offering deep insight into the complexities of crisis support and suicide prevention. Each entry features a complete APA citation alongside a brief…

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Coping & Connection

The Role of Community in Suicide Prevention: How You Can Make a Difference

Suicide prevention isn’t just the work of crisis lines or professionals. It’s a community effort—and that includes you. When communities come together, we create safer spaces. We build trust. We notice when something seems off. We start the conversations that save lives. Here’s how you can be part of that: Learn the signs. Withdrawal, mood…

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How to Support Mental Wellness in Older Adults 

Mental health is just as important as physical health, especially as we age. Here are some ways to support older adults’ well-being:  Encourage regular social interactions through calls, visits, or community groups. CONTACT Care Line’s Reassurance Program provides scheduled check-in calls to offer connection and support, helping to reduce isolation and ensure well-being. Promote physical…

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