Suicide Prevention Hotline: What Happens When You Call 988

When you’re struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or overwhelming emotions, picking up the phone to call a suicide prevention hotline can feel intimidating. But knowing what to expect can make it easier to take that first step.

In this episode, journalist Corinne Purtill shares her powerful personal story of calling a crisis line at one of the darkest points in her life. She opens up about the fear, shame, and misconceptions she carried into the call — and how the trained listener on the other end helped her find connection and hope.

We explore the reality of what happens when you dial 988, the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: how the call works, who answers, and why you don’t need to be suicidal to reach out. This conversation is a reminder that crisis lines save lives, and that help is always available, 24/7.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Misconceptions about suicide prevention hotlines
• What really happens when you call 988
• Corinne’s personal story of reaching out during crisis
• How depression convinces people to stay silent
• The role of shame and stigma in hiding suicidal thoughts
• The lifesaving power of having the right words to ask for help
• Recovery and support after making that first call

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why 988 matters
 01:00 – The purpose of the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
 02:06 – Corinne’s story: never expecting to call
 03:34 – How depression silences us
 04:35 – Privacy vs. shame: the myths about hotlines
 06:05 – Hiding depression behind a smile
 06:54 – The role of shame in suicidal thoughts
 08:08 – Depression’s biggest lie
 09:09 – Corinne makes a plan to end her life
 09:43 – The moment she called the hotline
 10:30 – What to say when you reach out
 10:57 – Why the right words matter
 11:24 – What happens if you’re on hold when calling 988
 12:46 – Recovery through therapy and medication
 13:38 – Warning signs to watch for before “code red”

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