This week, Lifeline expanded the operating hours of their crisis text service to support struggling Australians, supported by $1.5 million of government funding.
There has been a considerable increase in the demand for Lifeline’s crisis support services during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 24/7 text service is a critical expansion of the support Lifeline provides in the suicide prevention sector.
In 2021, Lifeline received a record-breaking 1,070,860 calls and responded to 51,265 text conversations.
In the Department of Health Minister’s media release on 7 February, Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt MP said, “More people are reaching out for help, and services like Lifeline are there to help.”
The 24/7 text service was launched by Lifeline Australia Patron, John Brogden, who was joined by Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, David Coleman MP, and NSW Minister for Environment and Heritage, James Griffin MP, at Lifeline Northern Beaches.
“The 24/7 lifeline crisis support text service makes Lifeline’s support available to groups who might otherwise not reach out for help, particularly young people who are often more comfortable using text services,” said David Coleman MP.
Data has shown that texting is the preferred channel for high-risk members of the community including young people, those experiencing family and domestic violence, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This service expansion makes Lifeline’s support available to those who need it most, when they need it.
If you or someone you know feels overwhelmed, the 24/7 text service is now active. Please reach out and connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable – 24 hours, 7 days:
- Call 13 11 14
- Text 0477 13 11 14
- Chat
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