I would imagine that in reality the percentage of callers that actually intend to commit suicide is probably pretty low, regardless of 'studies'. How are you going to really study something like that objectively? I can't imagine that anyone would ever hear about someone who used one successfully. Only the actual suicides are going to make the news like this, which is sad. However, I would think it would be worth it even if a hotline is only able to dissuade even 1/10000 callers intent on committing suicide.
Even if the same amount of money could save five lives elsewhere? As a person who continually deals with depression, I'm glad the hotlines exist and absolutely think they are worth it; but I cringe every time I hear, "if it only saves one life" regardless of the cost (which is usually billions of dollars and a few civil rights when the government is involved).
