• Depression Screening: Since untreated depression is a major contributor to suicide, free depression screening is offered year round to anyone. Children from age 6 and above can be screened. This has often been the first step in the process. Many clients have told SPS that being able to walk through the door, have the screening done, and get help, has been the first step in a successful journey out of depression.

• Depression Hotline: Our empathic paraprofessionals are trained to counsel callers with any personal problems, such as anxiety, alcohol, family, school, and sexuality, and are prepared to work with the lonely, the depressed, and the suicidal.

• Information and Referral: Operators provide information about the availability of social services of a health or mental health nature in Kane County, Illinois.

• 1-800-SUICIDE Emergency Service: Operators are trained to help people through such emergencies as attempted suicide, drug overdose, and psychotic episodes.

• My Buddy: Volunteer operators call or visit shut-ins daily or on specific pre-arranged days to check on their well-being. Buddy Calls are provided free of charge on either a temporary or long-term basis.

• Who are SPS Hotline Operators? Our hotline volunteer paraprofessionals are concerned community members from every social, economic, and educational background. Volunteer paraprofessionals are taught about emergency procedures, telephone counseling techniques and methods of providing social service information. Lectures cover topics such as basic psychology, suicide, psychotherapeutic techniques, drugs, alcohol, rape, incest, domestic violence, and adolescent and family problems. During the training, volunteers are given an opportunity to practice being an operator through role-playing exercises, as well as on-the-line training. Credit is offered through approved colleges. Training is available throughout the year to accommodate each person's schedule and lifestyle.
  
  New volunteers are always needed
  and welcome.
  
  Call 630-482-9696.

IF YOU ARE A COLLEGE STUDENT, YOU MAY BE ABLE TO GET COLLEGE CREDIT BY TAKING LINE ROOM TRAINING. CHECK WITH YOUR INSTRUCTOR FOR DETAILS.

Here are some quotes from a former volunteer writing to us about her Crisis Line experience:

"It was really nice to hear from you. It made me realize again, that I miss volunteering for the line and how much I was able to give and gain with each call. I have so many memories and experiences that truly have helped me to become a better person and have prepared me for challenges in my life. In fact, last month I went through an intense application process to become a Student Health Advocate. I owe it in part for sure to my experience at the Crisis Line that I was accepted."

"I'm really excited to start this, and I thank you for the tremendous experience that was made available to me."

"Please take care of yourselves and all of the callers whose lives you touch so deeply."

Services are available regardless of age, race, religion, sex, or financial ability. Equal opportunity for services and employment is guaranteed through the bylaws of Suicide Prevention Services and through the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Executive Order #11246.