Manager Sébastien Hay told RTL that anyone was capable of helping a person in distress, simply by listening to their concerns.
Although the service has received 30% more calls since the health crisis began, Hay said he did not think there was a trend towards a heightened suicide risk. Among others, the subject had been discussed in the parliamentary session on Saturday.
SOS Détresse offers support to those experiencing a number of different issues, explained Hay. Concerns include loneliness, isolation, worries or difficulty adapting to the current situation, and many more.
The services can be accessed via phone or online.
Both options are staffed by volunteers who have undergone 18 months of training, and who are under supervision. The association offers solutions to social, personal, psychological or familial problems, as well as work issues, and also caters to those with depression or suicidal thoughts.
Hay said the service focused on listening without judgement and underlined the importance of taking people’s concerns seriously, particularly those struggling with their mental health.
However, he explained that those with suicidal thoughts should also seek professional support. SOS Détresse cannot offer a full follow-up service.
The association can be contacted by telephone on 454545 and online via the 454545.lu site.
