Behind the Scenes with the Moderators

Sometimes What you see is not always what you get. Such is the case for our Chat Room Moderators. Behind the scenes however there is a lot going on with them. Moderators often have private messages they are answering for people asking for advice or help. Its not unusual for a moderator to have several conversations going on at once. Also because you see their name in black doesn't mean they are in the same room you are in. Moderators are often holding support meetings in other rooms. If he/she doesn;t answer you just click on her name and pm her. Ask if she is busy? Most of the time you'll find that you wern't being ignored at all.

Moderators are dedicated volunteers who give their time and knowledge to the Transgendered community. Many of them have or are taking suicide prevention training. Moderators take the same training that suicide hot line volunteers take. This is because we have the highest suicide rate of any group. Estimates range from 31 to 50%. One psychologist estimates it at 9 times the average suicide rate. Many more have attempted or at least considered suicide. Laura's Playground is dedicated to lowering the transgender suicide rate. Without trained moderators this would not be possible.

At the same time they keep the room safe from sexual predators and admirers so you can talk in peace. So if you think you're being ignored its likely a crisis may be going on behind the scenes. Help your moderator out follow the rules so they can focus on what they do best.