Lifeline WA receives record number of crisis calls as cost of living crisis pushes Aussies to breaking point

WA’s peak suicide prevention service received a record number of crisis calls last month, as the cost of living crisis continues to push people to breaking point. Lifeline WA revealed the number of people seeking help had soared by 15 per cent in October after receiving more than 5,251 calls, breaking its previous record of monthly calls set during the COVID-19 pandemic in December 2021. Lifeline WA chief executive Lorna MacGregor said the cost of living crisis was having a devastating toll on people’s mental health, with requests for Lifeline’s Financial Toolkit up 183 per cent. “The situation is critical and we can’t wait until the start of the festive season to encourage the community and the business sector to dig deep to support us,” she said. “Every dollar is vital now.” Ms MacGregor said December was shaping up to be the “busiest (month) on record”. “We predict that by the end of 2024 we will have handled more conversations than ever,” she said. “The higher-than-ever call rates mean we need more volunteers and more money to help train them in their life saving work.” Lifeline WA has since launched its annual Lights for Lifeline Christmas appeal two weeks early in a bid to help more people over the festive season. To kick off the campaign, Lifeline WA has launched a dollar-for-dollar initiative with a target figure of $100,000. “It’s really important that no one feels they have to face this holiday season alone, so it is our goal to ensure every call is answered and that we are here for every West Australian who needs us,” Ms MacGregor said. “Even the smallest donation can make a big difference.” For more information visit the Lifeline WA website via this link.