General News
3 July, 2024
Pressure is mounting as more callers plea for help
Data released in April by Lifeline reveals that about 500 calls made to Lifeline each day are related to financial management, employment or housing insecurity.
Of this number, about 50 are focused on concerns related to homelessness.
This data, however, doesn't include the 900 help seekers contacting Lifeline through text and webchat services, the services's Support Toolkit or specialised helplines.
“What's concerning is that we know the true number of people identifying cost-of-living
pressures as their primary reason for contacting Lifeline is actually significantly higher," Lifeline Loddon Mallee executive officer Lisa Renato said.
Lifeline Australia’s chief research officer, Dr Anna Brooks, said financial stressors
were not isolated to those who had a mortgage, with cost-of-living increases flowing
through to generate higher rental costs and other economic pressures.
“Financial stress and uncertainty can contribute to mental ill health," Dr Brooks said.
"There's also a robust and growing body of evidence to suggest that people can experience increased risk of suicide when facing these challenges.”
Contact Lifeline to speak to a crisis supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, chat to Lifeline online or access the Support Toolkit at www.lifeline.org.au.
All services are available 24/7.