Debbie Dedrickson is the Director of Crisis Line Operations at Lines for Life in Portland, Oregon. Lines for Life is one of the crisis call centers that answers the national suicide crisis line. We’ll talk about things like:

• Why the Karpman Drama Triangle can underpin a lot of dysfunctional relationships and be the unseen force driving relationship issues.

• Who calls Lines for Life – is it always people in imminent danger of suicide? Can others call if they have questions or want to help a friend?

• When someone calls Lines for Life – who picks up the phone? What kind of training have they had? What are their requirements for confidentiality?

• What changes are coming to Lines for Life for the new nationwide mental health 988 crisis line?

• What happens on a call for Lines for Life? Someone calls in – what happens next? How do you help someone identify reasons for living that they may have forgotten about?

• What is cognitive constriction and how does it prevent the suicidal person from getting help?

• What role does shame play in suicide?

• Is suicidal thinking a lifelong struggle, can it come and go, or can someone recover fully if treated?

  And along the way we’ll cover some myths about suicidal ideology such as – did you know asking about suicide doesn’t “put the idea in their head” but is actually one of the best ways to help someone who is struggling? We’ll discuss why and what to do if you don’t know what to do if they say “yes”.

• We reference “Kevin” in part I, as a suicide survivor who speaks about his experience but couldn’t remember his full name at the time. Find out more about Kevin Hines.

• Listen to Deborah on NPR’s “Marketplace” July 15th, 2022

• Interested in volunteering at Lines for Life? Or taking the 90 minute, remote, QPR training that Lines for Life offers?

• Are you thinking of suicide? Get help now by calling or texting 988 to connect. Get help sooner and feel better sooner – it’s possible. You are not alone – please reach out for help.