FV asks: What part of your job do you find to be the most challenging?

I think that the hardest part is when I've been on a really emotional call with someone, and I have to hang up the phone, and just trust myself that I did everything I could for that person, and it is no longer in my hands what happens. Every time I hang up the phone, I pray that whoever has called me will continue to receive the help that he or she deserves.

FV asks: What kind of things might you tell a teen who is using marijuana or alcohol to avoid their feelings?

I've been involved in Alanon for a long time, and I know that substance abuse can be a very difficult problem. I let the person know that calling TEEN LINE was a great thing to do, because it shows that he/she is looking for an alternative method to deal with their feelings. The fact that they thought to pick up the phone and call shows that they're seeking something other than drugs or alcohol to deal.

For family members or friends of people abusing alcohol and drugs, I remind them that the addiction is out of their control, and that alcoholism and drug addiction is a disease, and they do not have to power to force a person to quit. The drug addict or alcoholic must seek help in order to get better, and the family member or friend must concentrate on getting the help that he or she needs.

FV asks: What have you learned from all of this?

I've learned the value of empathy. I've learned how to use active listening in my own life. When I see people acting in a negative way, perhaps to themselves, or other people, I always ask myself, "What is this really about?" I've learned from TEEN LINE that there's always something going on, perhaps problems with family, or other things personal, that cause people to behave in a certain way. I'm more understanding, and not as judgmental as I used to be.

FV asks: How can I become a peer counselor or Listener in my area?

I would recommend that you start today! You can become involved in the counseling office at your school, by perhaps becoming a peer counselor. Or there are numerous different organizations, including TEEN LINE, that you can start working on. Call TEEN LINE for info, or check in to other local projects in your area.
(800) TLC-TEEN   (California callers)
(310) 855-HOPE(4673)   (You can dial direct or call collect)