General News
24 December, 2024
Support available over Christmas
As Lifeline prepares for further increases in demand over the weeks ahead, they are reminding the Loddon Mallee communities to reach out for support if they are experiencing loneliness and are in need of connection.
Executive officer Lisa Renato said loneliness and social isolation can be brought about or exacerbated by several factors.
“While help seekers might not necessarily recognise what they are experiencing as ‘feeling lonely,’ many of the conversations with our crisis supporters reveal a sense of isolation and disconnection. This can be particularly prevalent over Christmas,” she said.
“Significant life changes such as a relationship breakdown, losing a loved one, becoming a parent, financial hardship and health conditions are risk factors for an isolated life.
“As well as Lifeline’s 24/7 phone, text and webchat services, we have developed an evidence-informed Holiday Season Toolkit which offers understanding, support and practical tips to support people through the weeks ahead.”
Lifeline CEO Colin Seery said 2024 has been the organisation’s busiest year in its 61-year history, with eight of the all-time 10 record days recorded this year.
“If you find the holiday season challenging, you’re not alone. In fact, the Christmas period is Lifeline’s busiest time of year,” he said.
“Last December, we received an average of one call every 30 seconds. Across our phone, text, and chat crisis support services, we received almost 150,000 contacts.
“Our incredible crisis supporters and teams on the ground work tirelessly to keep up with demand for our frontline phone, digital and on-the-ground crisis support volunteers, but we need your support to help us be there whether it’s 4 am on Christmas Day or 7 am on New Year’s Day.”
You can phone Lifeline to speak to a crisis supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, chat to Lifeline online or access the Support Toolkit to self-manage what you’re going through at www.lifeline.org.au (all services are available 24/7).