Help me (tasukete)

Overview

Messages like "Help me," "I want to die," or "I can't take it anymore" can arrive in a question box. Sometimes they aren't even phrased as questions. Still, the sender may want someone to listen. An anonymous question box is a place where people can send honest feelings they wouldn't say out loud in real life.

The person answering may not know what to do with messages like these. You're not a counselor. You don't know what to say. Is it okay to ignore it? Will answering make you responsible? Feeling lost like this is a natural reaction.

What the person answering can do

An answer from someone who isn't a professional is a different thing from professional counseling. But there are things you can do. First, let them know you got the message. "I read it." "Thank you for sending this." The fact that it reached someone can help the sender feel a little lighter.

Second, point them to a professional support line. "Yorisoi Hotline (0120-279-338)" and "Childline (0120-99-7777)" are support lines in Japan. An answer that includes these numbers can be what leads the sender to talk to a professional.

Third, admit your own limits. "I can't give professional advice, but I'm worried about you." Telling them this honestly is also a sincere way to respond.

Take care of yourself, too

The person answering who receives a serious message can be hurt by it, too. Coming into contact with other people's suffering is one cause of compassion fatigue. You may feel pressure, thinking "I have to do something."

But the person answering has no duty to save the sender's life. Do what you can, and leave what you can't to professionals. That's a responsible response, too. If receiving a serious message makes you feel bad, talk to someone yourself. Don't carry it alone. If the person answering breaks down, it becomes hard for them to help anyone through a question box.