UL Student Volunteer Kate Kennedy

10/03/2021

My name is Kate Kennedy, and I am a 4^th year student studying Psychology in UL. I have been volunteering with Crisis Text line since June 2020 and have completed over 170 hours of volunteering since then. Being a crisis volunteer allows you to support and listen to individuals experiencing crisis situations who have texted into the service. It is extremely rewarding to have the opportunity to assist them in making their own plans to approach their crisis situations. Knowing you’ve supported someone through a difficult experience is very fulfilling. I had always wanted to volunteer with a mental health organisation, however, I felt I was too busy before this year. Since the Covid-19 pandemic began, I have had a lot more time on my hands which I felt could be put to good use. Furthermore, I thought it was appropriate to begin volunteering this year in particular, as everyone’s mental health is vulnerable during these unprecedented times. Crisis Textline is an online volunteer platform therefore is a safe way to give back to the community virtually during the Covid-19 pandemic. This type of volunteering is also extremely beneficial for your career and CV if you are studying Psychology or a similar course.