Inside TeeBeeDee: September 29, 2008

RobinWolaner
RobinWolaner
Staff

Posted: Sep 29, 08 1:33pm

Yesterday evening was a dramatic one at TBD. A member posted thoughts that sounded like she might be contemplating suicide. This naturally generated concern among many members, who reached out to her in several ways. A number of you also contacted TBD – by calling our office phone (which is only staffed 8:30-5 M-F pacific time and is not equipped or staffed to offer suicide prevention counseling at any time), and by PMing Community Guide KatBrennan and me.

This episode had an apparently positive ending, thanks in great measure to TBD members who reached the local police department, who intervened. Along with all of you who continue to express concern for our troubled member, we wish everyone involved the best.

Kat spent a good part of her Sunday evening dealing with this. (I was at the movies and unaware of the crisis until it was over.) While she contributed, I do think it worth noting (since she got at least one critical follow-up) that TBD is a free website. Our awesome community rose to this challenge, but we do not have the staff resources to provide 24/7 member support. For those who thought we could contact the member'’s ISP, I wonder if you have ever tried to contact your ISP on a Sunday night; without a court order, the ISP would not have given us more information about the member. Nor would it have been appropriate, however well-intentioned, for Kat to provide any non-public information about the member. In the clear light of day, I think Kat did what she could on behalf of TBD, and our members did a stellar job.

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12 Comments // 13 Members
Tall Bill
Tall Bill

Posted: Sep 29, 08 1:36pm

I thought it was handled with the perfect balance of urgency and privacy, Robin. It was a scary read!

wellwoman
wellwoman

Posted: Sep 29, 08 1:38pm

I certainly hope that there wasn't any criticism aimed at the TBD staff - I thought Kat did a wonderful job within the limitations put upon her. All in all, I think everyone would agree that as a group all were brought together in a closer way, and the importance of community in general was realized.

spuff
spuff
Founding Member

Posted: Sep 29, 08 1:42pm

it's refreshing to see both TBD staff and members looking out for their own, as it should be. well done Kat. i hope this member is getting the help she needs. my thoughts are with her.

BLONDIE2020
BLONDIE2020
Founding Member

Posted: Sep 29, 08 1:42pm

Wow...great job to all involved.

Ladybug 00
Ladybug 00

Posted: Sep 29, 08 1:56pm

I can't imagine how anyone could criticize Kat or any other staff member. I was there as it was happening, and it was scary. It was a miracle due to cool thinking and to caring, that the police were able to get to her in time.

Kudos to Kat and all other staff.

Marion4333
Marion4333
Founding Member

Posted: Sep 29, 08 2:01pm

I certainly hope that there wasn't any criticism aimed at the TBD staff - I thought Kat did a wonderful job within the limitations put upon her. All in all, I think everyone would agree that as a group all were brought together in a closer way, and the importance of community in general was realized.

No critisism ! NONE:)

Britscot
Britscot
Founding Member

Posted: Sep 29, 08 2:03pm

Sandra sent out a call for help using TBD as the avenue.

TBD members rallied round.

Well done guys and gals.