This is about resources.
In this blog I'll be sharing several links to help everyone be aware of when someone may be discreetly asking for help and how you can help when you see the signs.
They say these are universal signs, I say we make sure they are, spread the word.
This is NOT an all-inclusive list. I welcome all of you to share this with everyone you know and please add other suggestions as well. These signals can help, but only if people know to use them, and only if people know what to look for.
Discreet call for help:
Did you know that there is a hand signal that allows you to discreetly ask for help?
It's just three easy steps.
If someone uses this on a video call, from across the room, or walking down the street, be aware that they need help, and find a way to help them.
Here's a video to show how it could work, from the view of the one who needs support and the one who can help.
A Bad Date:
Did you know that ordering an Angel Shot at a bar, means that you need help?
Depending on how you order the drink, determines the support you can get.
Neat means you need someone to walk you to your car.
With Ice means you need a cab.
With a Lime means to contact the police.
You can also ask for Angela at bars and hotels, and they may know you need help.
Again, this only works if everyone knows this. So spread the word, ask your local bar to hang this in the restrooms, and tell the bartenders and hotels to be aware.
SOS on your smartphone or smartwatch:
Did you know that you can set up smart devices to make emergency calls for you?
You can program your phone, both Apple and Android, as well as your Apple Watch, to send your location to a particular person, or even the police, when you feel unsafe.
Check out this link to learn how to set this up, for yourself, or your children.
Metal Detectors:
Did you know that putting a spoon down your pants may be a call for help?
If you are in an unsafe situation and you are going through the metal detectors at the airport, store, or building, put something metal near any of your private areas, ie. crotch, chest, or butt. When you set off the machine and they pat you down, they will have to pull you to a separate area to check you privately, due to the location of the metal on your body.
That's your chance to ask for help.
I knew some of these, but not all.
I shared this information with my two teens. I was glad to learn that they were both aware of these options in case they were ever in a position where they needed help. My son actually told me about the metal detector option, well worth the share.
If these are going to work, and people are going to feel supported, then EVERYONE needs to know them. So please, please please spread the word, tell your family, friends, kids, and co-workers, so everyone can feel safe and supported.