Frequently Asked Questions about The CALL

What is the Crisis Assistance Listening Line (CALL) phone number?

1 (575) 646-2255
Toll-free:  1 (866) 314-6841

Calls are free and lines are open 24/7.

I don't live in a 575 area code. Can I still use the CALL?

Yes, the CALL is a free service to anyone in New Mexico. If you do not live in the 575 area code, you can call us on the toll-free number (866) 314-6841.

Do I need to be in a crisis to call?

Although our responders are trained in crisis intervention, you do not need to be in a crisis to call. You can call about any problem, big or small. No matter what the issue, the CALL will work with you help connect you with resources in the community.
The CALL is here to help with issues such as:

• Problems at work or school
• Depression
• Family concerns
• Substance abuse and addiction
• Thoughts of suicide
• Personal or financial problems

Can the CALL help me find resources in my area?

Yes. The CALL has an extensive database of resources, such as food banks, legal support services, substance abuse services, counselors, and family resources. Please let us know what you need and we will give you options that you can choose from.

Who will I reach when I call?

You will reach a trained, compassionate, and competent responder who has completed at least 40 hours of crisis and listening line training. We do not give advice, but we will listen to your concerns and help you come up with ideas for possible solutions for your problems.

When I call, is my information kept confidential?

Yes. As a caller, you have the right to disclose as much or as little information as you want. We keep call logs only to track caller demographic information. We will not release the information that you share with us to anyone.

Confidentiality can only be broken in the case of immediate harm to self or others, child or dependant adult abuse.

I think my friend is considering suicide. What are some warning signs of suicide I should look for?

If your friend is actively considering suicide i.e, is taking drugs, has a weapon, etc., call 911 immediately!  According to the American Association of Suicidology, warning signs of acute risk for suicide can include:

Threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself; and/or,

Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means; and/or,

Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary.

If you are in doubt, contact 911 immediately.

Some additional warning signs of suicide, according to the American Association of Suicidology, can include the following:

• Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use
• No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
• Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
• Feeling trapped - like there’s no way out
• Hopelessness
• Withdrawal from friends, family and society
• Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
• Dramatic mood changes.

For more information, statistics, and resources see the American Association of Suicidology website.

If I see any of these warning signs of suicide, can I help my friend in any way?

You can let him/her know that they are not alone. There are people to turn to. According to the American Association of Suicidology, some resources to contact are:

• A community mental health agency
• A private therapist
• A school counselor or psychologist
• A family physician
• A suicide prevention/crisis intervention center
• A religious/spiritual leader
  

For more information on how to help, see the American Association of Suicidology website.
You can also contact the CALL at (575) 646-2255 for some more ideas and resources in your area.

I'd like to volunteer for the CALL. Where should I start?

Click here to fill out an application.

A staff person will contact you after receiving the application. Trainings are held several times a year, and we will let you know when the next training begins. Over the course of about 3 weeks, you will receive 16 hours of crisis intervention training, 16 hours of didactic training on relevant topics, and 8 hours of role-plays, where you can practice listening and intervention skills before starting work on the phone lines. Volunteers are asked to commit to the CALL for one year, and sign up for at least one 4-hour shift per week. Should a volunteer be unable to work their shift or have a need to leave town, we simply ask that you let us know.

Do I need to have any background experience in crisis lines or counseling to volunteer?

No. However, if you are a counselor, you may not need to participate in the full 40-hour training. Talk to us about your background and we will work with you.