As Lifeline prepares for further increases in demand over the weeks ahead, they are reminding Australians not to hesitate to reach out for support if they are experiencing loneliness and in need of connection.
Dr Anna Brooks, Chief Research Officer of the Lifeline Research Office says loneliness and social isolation can be brought about – or exacerbated - by several factors.
“While help seekers might not necessarily describe 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 the Christmas period.”
“Significant life changes such as a relationship breakdown, losing a loved one, even becoming a parent, financial hardship and health conditions are risk factors for a more 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,” said Dr Brooks.
One of Australia’s leading loneliness awareness organisations, Ending Loneliness Together (ELT,) found one in four Australian adults reported feeling persistently lonely in 2024. Persistent loneliness is defined as feeling lonely for eight weeks or longer.
ELT Scientific Chair Associate Professor Michelle Lim says admitting that you feel lonely carries stigma in our communities.
“Few people openly admit to feeling lonely but at least a quarter of our adult population are reporting persistent loneliness in 2024.”
“It is important to understand that the experience of loneliness is not the same as being alone. It is possible to spend time by yourself but not feel lonely. Equally, you can be surrounded by many people, but still feel lonely,” added Associate Professor Lim.
This festive period is predicted to bring even greater demand for Lifeline’s 24/7 crisis support services – and the organisation is ensuring that there are enough Crisis Supporters on hand to support anyone needing help.
Lifeline CEO Colin Seery says 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. 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 4am on Christmas Day or 7am on New Year’s Day,” said Mr Seery.
This Christmas, give the gift of connection by donating to Lifeline. Just $39 is the cost of answering one call and can help save a life.
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).
About us:
ABOUT LIFELINE
For over 60 years, Lifeline has been connecting with Australians in need through crisis support and suicide prevention services, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 43 Centres around the nation as well as a 24/7 crisis text, webchat service and Support Toolkit.
The organisation expects to respond to over 1.4 million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day.
ENDING LONELINESS TOGETHER
Ending Loneliness Together was founded in 2016 by a collaboration of established leaders and experts in the field of loneliness, with a vision to create an Australia where everyone feels a sense of connection and belonging.
Now a national organisation underpinned by lived experience, research, community, government and health expertise, Ending Loneliness Together generates research and translates evidence into practical resources and solutions to effectively address social isolation and loneliness. Ending Loneliness Together has a number of resources available on its website.
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