I have been volunteering at a helpline for the past 3+ years, offering emotional support for people who feel depressed, lonely and suicidal. I feel that it's a meaningful role where I get to give something back to society and make connections with people I would normally not be able to speak with, and to speak with them about things that would not be usually be discussed under other circumstances. I often have to remember that these conversations are not about me and my focus should be on the caller. I suppose that over the past few years I have learnt to be a better listener and to commit my focus and attention during every minute of the call to the person I'm on the line with. I'm hopeful that more volunteers will come on board and stay on to serve, as there is a lack of people manning the lines for this round-the-clock service.
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