By Steff WillisTuesday 24 Dec 2024ChristmasReading Time: 2 minutes
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, or so the Christmas carol goes.
As loved ones gather to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s, charities like Lifeline and Beyond Blue remind us that the festive season isn’t joyful for all.
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.” Dr Anna Brooks, Lifeline Chief Research Officer
In an open letter, Beyond Blue’s CEO Georgie Harman is reminding Australians that not everyone has someone with whom to share Christmas.
“The season to be merry can also amplify feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially for those who are separated from family or have lost a loved one,” the letter read.
Christmas aside, has seen an increase in the need of its services this year, likely being driven by cost-of-living pressures.
We encourage you to consider who in your world might be struggling and consider reaching out to support them during what can be an incredibly tough season.
Where To Go for Help
Along with the 96five Careline Connection, we encourage you to reach out to one of the following organisation if you are feeling overwhelmed, lonely or you just need someone to talk to.
Beyond Blue
Available 24/7, trained counselors can either be accessed by phone – 1300 22 46 36 – or jump online for an anonymous chat.
Lifeline
To speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, chat to Lifeline online or access the Holiday Season Support Toolkit to self-manage what you’re going through at www.lifeline.org.au (all services are available 24/7).
13YARN
A free and confidential service run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People 24 hours, 7 days a week, call 13 92 76.
Suicide Call Back Service
Suicide Call Back Service is a free nationwide service providing 24/7 phone and online counselling to people affected by suicide. Call 1300 659 467 or access their chat services.
Reach Out
For online chat support for young people, check out https://au.reachout.com/
96five’s Careline Connection
The 96five Careline Connection is a confidential, telephone help service for listeners who need encouragement, prayer or a listening ear.
The service is available between 9am and 11pm, seven days a week, and can be reached by calling 2103 3195.
