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How effective are hotlines?
Written by
Aya Waheed
•
The effectiveness of hotlines on victims
While everything becomes digitalized, seeking support is no exception. Many NGOs have followed the method of including a hotline to support victims of various types of abuse, but to know more about its effectiveness, we need to know the opinions of help seekers.
The outcome of hotlines
It’s not enough to be listened to only by mental health experts; it’s also important to dive deeply into the root causes of the trauma. However, most helpline users seek support as a friend rather than as a patient.
According to Prikis et al. (2016), 3% of the hotline users produce 60% of the calls; the more frequently users use the helpline, the poorer their mental health is.
Experiencing misdiagnosis and misunderstanding was one issue, while being labeled as a "troublesome patient" was another.
One user characterized the doctor's comments about therapy as "Just empty."
words so far," and another expressed a feeling of giving up after finally securing an appointment:
I was referred to outpatient psychiatry care with a guarantee to see a doctor within 1 month and a psychologist within 8 months. I finally got a doctor's appointment in three weeks after having nagged and reminded for over 2 months [...] I'm so tired of constantly being overlooked in the care system and
I wonder if I can wait that long? (ID5948)
receiving help through telephone
They provide visual privacy and, even more crucially, a highly personal way to connect for listening and emotional support—particularly in cases involving users with intricate, undefined issues. Additionally, they serve as a knowledgeable
entry point to guide individuals towards complementary services. The shift towards digital helplines is widespread, and they come with their own set of benefits, which are elaborated on below.
A hybrid model that combines telephone helplines with a digital component preserves the personal benefits of a telephone conversation, fulfills the demand for ‘always on’ user accessibility, and ensures 24-hour availability when telephone operators are unavailable.
Positive results are noted when users engage with both channels interchangeably, leading to sustained contact.
The significance of digital helplines is on the rise
The significance of digital helplines is on the rise, partly because they are more cost-effective to maintain and have the ability to scale efficiently. They offer anonymity and are often seen as more accessible than traditional phone conversations. With digital connectivity nearly ubiquitous in the UK, these services attract users who are heavy digital consumers, especially in scenarios where factual issues can be addressed online.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be conducted over the phone, but it is increasingly being offered online, with or without the presence of guided support. While unguided CBT is more scalable, guided CBT typically leads to improved outcomes due to the ongoing support provided over a medium to long-term basis. The pace of technological innovation is rapid, and exploring the effectiveness of emerging technologies like machine learning and AI could be a promising avenue for future research.
To conclude
Hotlines serve as a pivotal resource for individuals seeking immediate assistance across various sectors. Their effectiveness hinges on accessibility, trained personnel, and efficient call management systems. By offering a confidential and supportive environment, hotlines empower individuals to voice their concerns and seek help without fear of stigma. Continuous evaluation and enhancement of these services are essential to ensure they meet the evolving needs of the community. By investing in hotlines, organizations can significantly contribute to the well-being of their stakeholders, fostering a culture of support and responsiveness that ultimately leads to healthier societies.
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