This American Life 809: The Call
Sep 8, 2023
Exploring the power of hotlines, this podcast discusses the 'Never Use Alone' hotline for drug users. A nurse takes a call from Kimber, who later disappears. We learn what happened to her and the importance of hotlines in saving lives. The personal experiences of nurses and the unpredictability of using Narcan are also shared. Kimber's journey of recovery is highlighted, leaving listeners intrigued for the next episode.
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Origins of Hotlines
- The first US suicide hotline was created in the 1960s by a priest/journalist named Bernard Mays.
- It was just him, answering calls and offering support to strangers, highlighting anonymity's power.
Kimber's Overdose
- A woman named Kimber called the Never Use Alone hotline before using heroin, likely laced with fentanyl.
- An operator, Jessie, stayed on the line with her but Kimber became unresponsive, leading Jessie to call 911.
Overdose Crisis and Hotline's Goal
- Over 100,000 Americans die annually from overdoses, exceeding car accident fatalities.
- The Never Use Alone hotline aims to prevent overdose deaths, not necessarily promote sobriety or treatment.