Asking for help is a sign of true strength.
In Canada, Kids Help Phone is a free professional service for anyone aged twenty years and younger. You can call anytime of day or night, 365 days a year, about anything, from trouble with your homework to dealing with the loss of a loved one, from feelings of depression to thoughts of suicide. You don’t have to tell them who you are, and your information is safe. In other words, your call is anonymous and confidential. The number is 1-800-668-6868.
If talking to someone is a bit intimidating right now, you could log on to the Kids Help Phone website and get help from professional counselors, online. Reading what other kids are talking about can also make you feel less alone. Check it out. It’s pretty neat. All you need to do is type in the words Kids Help Phone or www.kidshelpphone.ca.
If you live in the United States, there are similar services, such as Boys Town (1-800-448-3000, www.boystown.org) or Nineline (1-800-999-9999, www.nine-line.org). You can also talk to a teacher or guidance counselor at your school.
Many years ago, I volunteered on the Adult Help Phone in Nova Scotia. I’m very thankful to my friend Nancy Allen, who encouraged me to do it with her. Being a friendly voice on the other end of the phone was a very rewarding experience. Someone—somewhere— is waiting to be that friendly voice for you.