How can Samaritans help people with a neurodiversity?

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24 July (24/7) is Samaritans Awareness Day, because we’re here to listen 24/7. On this date and throughout July, they will be running their awareness-raising campaign Talk to Us, to remind people that they’re here for anyone who needs someone to listen.

Every year in July, Samaritans branches in the UK and Republic of Ireland hold local events to raise awareness that Samaritans are here to listen to anyone who’s struggling to cope, at any time of the day or night.

Samaritans is a well-known organisation that provides emotional support and assistance to people in distress. While Samaritans primarily focuses on providing support to individuals experiencing emotional distress and suicidal thoughts, they can certainly offer help to people with neurodiversity as well. Here are a few ways in which Samaritans can assist individuals with neurodiversity:

** Contact the Samaritans by phone, e-mail, online or by post, check out their website here! **

Emotional support:
Samaritans offers non-judgmental and confidential emotional support through their helpline, email, or text messaging services. People with neurodiversity may face unique challenges and may benefit from talking to someone who understands their experiences and can provide a listening ear.
Crisis intervention:
If someone with neurodiversity is in immediate crisis or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, Samaritans can offer crisis intervention. Trained volunteers are available 24/7 to provide support, help de-escalate the situation, and connect individuals with appropriate local resources or emergency services, if necessary.
Active listening:
Samaritans volunteers are trained in active listening techniques, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with neurodiversity. They can create a safe and supportive space, where individuals feel heard, validated, and understood.
Information and referrals:
Samaritans can provide information about local resources, support groups, or organizations that specialize in supporting individuals with neurodiversity. They can help connect individuals with services that may assist them in managing their specific challenges and provide guidance on accessing appropriate professional help.
Accessibility considerations:
Samaritans recognizes the importance of accessibility for individuals with neurodiversity. They may have specific measures in place, such as offering text-based communication options for those who prefer written communication over phone calls.

It’s worth noting that while Samaritans can provide valuable support, they are not a substitute for professional mental health services. If someone with neurodiversity requires ongoing therapeutic or medical interventions, it is important to seek assistance from qualified healthcare professionals.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, please reach out to emergency services or a helpline specifically designed for such situations in your country.

** Contact the Samaritans by phone, e-mail, online or by post, check out their website here! **

And Finally…

If you have any comments on any part of this, advice / suggestions or questions that I may be able to assist you with, please feel free to contact me at pete@weareneurodiverse.com or add a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can