It can take an enormous amount of courage and effort to reach out for help.
It’s absolutely crucial in those moments to be met by someone who is not only incredibly compassionate, but also highly skilled in handling distressing situations and offering crisis support too.
Lifeline is aiming to raise $130,000 before Saturday, 10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day.
All funds will help ensure that our crisis support remains informed by the latest research and most effective crisis support techniques.
And that’s because every single conversation with Lifeline – every courageous request for help – has the potential to change the course of a person’s life.
Sixty-five-year-old David knows from experience just how critical that first request for help can be.
His aunt noticed he was struggling in his twenties and encouraged him to see someone. David made an appointment with a mental health professional, but he didn’t find empathy and understanding he was looking for.
The experience would deter him from seeking help again for another 25 years.
During that time, he describes his life as “a rollercoaster of suicidal lows, manic highs, and ever-present anxiety”.
When David finally sought professional help a second time, he was at an all-time low – completely unable to function day-to-day. This time, he found connection and support. His journey towards finding effective treatment was able to commence.
David’s recovery was only made possible because he had finally found someone who made him feel heard and understood.
It is this listening with empathy and compassion that Lifeline provides thousands of times a day – and more than one million times last year – helping people find a way through their most distressing moments.
Every day, 178 Australians feel like they can’t be here anymore. On average, eight will take their own lives.
Your donation before World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September this year will help ensure Lifeline’s crisis support is developed and delivered to exceptionally high standards no matter how many requests for help we receive.
If you or someone you know needs crisis support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp. Thanks to our wonderful supporters, all of Lifeline’s crisis support services are now available 24/7. We’re here for you.
