Calls to Houston crisis intervention hotline spike after Robin Williams' suicide

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Today, the day after the suicide of legendary actor Robin Williams, is one of the busiest days in the history of Crisis Intervention of Houston.

"Depression absolutely does affect everyone," said Director Brenda Fitch.

On a usual day, Crisis Intervention gets about 250 calls. But between 6pm and midnight Monday, counselors received 300 calls. And this morning until 2 pm, counselors had received 500 more calls.

"Some of the comments that our counselors have heard are about that," Fitch said. "How could this individual be a comedian and bring such joy to other individuals and live in such pain?"

Counselors are available on the phone, through email, or text message. They speak 146 different languages, and everything is confidential.

"Be that place, that environment they can reach out to and talk about what they're feeling," Fitch explained.

The Crisis Intervention of Houston is located at 3701 Kirby Drive, Suite 540. To contact the agency, visit the website, email at info@crisishotline.org or call any of the following numbers:

• 713-HOTLINE Crisis Hotline


• 713-529-TEEN Teenline Hotline


• 713-47-AYUDA Spanish Hotline