Better Internet for Kids

Every day, dozens of young people seek help at Linka bezpečí (Czech helpline). Are you curious about what an immediate anonymous crisis intervention looks like? And what is the purpose of long-term therapy? Watch the documentary film ‘Conversations from the dark’ by Tereza Reichová, which offers an inside look at the anonymous crisis intervention at Linka bezpečí. You can find it on the online platform of Czech Television, along with bonus videos – an interview with the head of the Safety Line's professional services, Kateřina Lišková, and Radka Liebezeitová, head of preventive programs, and with therapist Naďa Kostková from the Gaudia psychotherapy center.

For ethical reasons, Linka bezpečí never records calls, so the film by Tereza Reichová only uses a recording of the voice of the consultant, Alexandra, whom children and teenagers call during her shift. These young people may have relationship problems within their families or with peers, or they might be in a serious psychological state. In the film, the viewer never hears the caller's voice; they can only infer their story from how and what the consultant replies to him.

The voice of Alexandra, speaking to anonymous callers, is later listened to by a group of five young people with experience in therapy during a film workshop. They process the emotions they felt from what they heard using film cameras, visual techniques, and even composing music, thus becoming co-authors of the film. In a safe dialogue with therapist Naďa Kostková and director Tereza Reichová, they share their experiences with psychological crises and recovery. Through their creative work in the workshop, the young people open up topics such as loneliness, fear, and the loss of the meaning of life. Their stories show that seeking help and working on oneself is worthwhile.

Find more information about the work of the Czech Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline, and youth participation services, or find similar information for other Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.