Lifeline is gearing up for its busiest time of year with calls expected to surge over Christmas.
The festive period can be a special time spent with family and friends but it can also be a difficult one, says Lifeline chief executive Colin Seery.
The organisation are expecting to answer up to 4000 calls a day across the 24/7 telephone crisis line, webchat and text services.
Contact volumes traditionally peak at approximately five per cent above average in the days between Christmas and New Year’s Eve and on the day immediately after the New Year’s Day Public Holiday.
The chief executive said the high volume of people reaching out for help can be related to heightened financial pressures, increased family conflict, loneliness and isolation or the grief of having lost a loved one.
“The holidays are a significant time of the year for people who need our help,” Seery said.
“This period can be an emotional and psychological minefield for those of us who have experienced loss, grief, struggle, isolation and pain.
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“The idea of togetherness traditionally associated with holidays can also exacerbate the intense loneliness many people feel.”
People are encouraged to take time out to plan for how they may cope with challenges over the coming weeks and consider whether they, or someone they know might need additional support.
“It is really important that no one feels they have to face this holiday season alone,” Seery said.
“So, whether it’s 3am on Christmas Day, or 11pm on New Year’s Eve, please know that Lifeline will be ready to listen and support you.”
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
