SAHAI gets calls from people from all walks of life and age groups:persons with relationship problems and career-related problems, professionals with employment-related issues.

Callers to Sahai are in a crisis looking forward for help and we offer the emotional support that is required.

Depression, drug, alcohol or substance abuse exacts their toll. Others are weighed down by dowry-related issues, retirement problems, and domestic issues. The trauma of incest or guilt arising from masturbation or being different also prompts some callers to reach out for help. Callers may face interpersonal issues which result in low self-esteem or have problems at work. Unfortunately, most of these issues lead people to the edge of despair.

- Emotional Transformation - Feel sad, angry, tense and tearful or overreact for no apparent reason. Additional signs to watch out for are: fear, withdrawal, brooding or excessive fussiness about physical attributes.

- Behavioural Changes - Sharp drop in academic grades, loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities, sudden changes in sleeping patterns or eating habits, avoidance of friends and family, loss of concentration, verbal hints, deliberate acts of self-harm, hallucinations and bizarre thoughts.

- Lifestyle Changes - Resorts to alcohol, drugs and substance abuse, violates the rights of others without regard, life-threatening behaviour, signs of over-eating, excessive dieting, self-induced vomiting

Volunteers.....

- Encourage expression of feelings and fears.

- Listen empathetically and offer emotional support.

- Encourage participation in activities that promote self-improvement, building self-esteem, etc.

- Talk about setbacks and constructive management of disappointments.

- Focus on discovery of aptitudes, passions and interests.

- Encourage development of various life skills for building resilience - such as Life   Skills, Time Management, Problem Solving Skills, Decision Making Skills, Effective   Communication Skills, Creative Thinking, Self Awareness. Most importantly reassure   and bring confidence for those in distress to handle life problems.