Lifeline needs your help over Christmas

Lifeline Central Coast is calling for community support this Christmas, with more than 125,000 connections expected through their phone, text and webchat services over the festive season.

Christmas is traditionally a busy time of year for the crisis support and suicide prevention organisation as factors such as loneliness, financial pressure and relationships combine to see distress levels rise.

Lifeline is calling out to the community for donations to help cover the costs of supporting people through challenging times.

For some, Lifeline represents one of the few if not only, connections they can access at a time when others are surrounded by friends and family.

Recently appointed as the new Chief Executive of Lifeline Direct, Luke Lindsay has a wealth of experience as a health executive and mental health clinician, coupled with a deep commitment to person-centred care.

“The holiday season can feel like a perfect storm of loneliness and expectations for many,” he said.

“For some, it’s unbearable to face alone.

“But it’s easier to find hope when you have someone to talk to, and for many Lifeline is who they reach to for this support.”

Lifeline offers a free service that is accessible 24/7 for whomever might need it.

Every call, text, or chat is answered by a trained crisis supporter and provides someone with the connection they need in their darkest moments.

“Right now, Lifeline is experiencing unprecedented demand for our services,” Lindsay said.

“On October 7 alone, we recorded the highest number of daily calls ever — 4,405 people reached out for help.

“Donations help ensure that our support lines stay open 24/7, so no one has to face their struggles alone.”

Donations to Lifeline Central Coast allow more crisis supporters to be trained and supported to answer calls in the region.

“There are 43 centres around Australia with volunteers who help answer calls to 13 11 14,” Lindsay said.

“This is a national issue and we all have a part to play to help make a difference to those who need us.

“We are proud to have a centre in Wyoming.”

Donations to the service can be made at centralcoast.lifeline.org.au

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).