Radiolab Hold On
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Mar 1, 2024 Discover the fascinating journey behind 988, a mental health hotline meant to provide support but often leaves callers in limbo with hold music. Hear about the pioneers of suicide prevention and the innovative minds tackling the challenges of response times. Explore how hold music is not just background noise but crucial in shaping a comforting experience. Dive into personal stories of resilience, creativity, and the healing power of connection as we unravel the complexities of mental health support in this impactful narrative.
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Donovan's Despair
- Donovan McBride, a law student, felt despondent during the summer of 2020 due to COVID-19 and a dissatisfying job.
- He reached a point where he considered 988, the suicide hotline, in his moment of distress.
988's Hold Problem
- The U.S. government launched 988, a suicide prevention hotline, as a mental health emergency resource.
- However, many callers experience hold music and disconnect before reaching help, highlighting a critical flaw in the system.
Schneidman's Discovery
- In 1949, Ed Schneidman discovered a collection of suicide notes while working at a Los Angeles Veterans Center.
- This sparked his interest in understanding suicide and led to the development of suicide prevention as a field of study.