Lifeline has record number of calls three times this month as Aussies struggle with lockdowns

A record broken three times this month has revealed the tragic hidden cost of lockdowns in Australia.

Australia’s largest suicide and prevention line this month recorded its busiest three days in its 57-year history as the nation struggles with lockdowns across several states and territories.

Lifeline Australia fielded 3,436 calls alone on Monday, about 40 per cent more than they averaged before the pandemic swept Australia in early 2020.

This year the service has fielded 680,000 calls with more than 10,000 of those collectively received on August 2 (3,345), August 5 (3,425) and August 16 (3,436).

Lifeline Australia chair John Brogden says people are struggling mentally and they are here to help. NCA NewsWire Joel Carrett

Lifeline Australia chair John Brogden said there was a positive side to the concerning statistic, pointing out the record number of calls showed those struggling mentally with lockdowns are at least reaching out for help.

Victoria’s lockdown for Greater Melbourne, which is place until September 2, includes a 9pm-5am curfew.

NSW and the ACT are under heavy restrictions while a lockdown for Greater Darwin area was on Thursday lifted but Katherine’s lockdown has been extended for 24 hours.

“The good news is that people who need support are reaching out and they’re getting it,” Mr Brogden said.

“While Monday was our busiest day on record, it wasn’t a one-off.

“It’s been a difficult few years for everyone in the community, but this also means that Australians know help is there when they need it.

“In the same period two years ago, we were averaging under 2,500 calls, our new record is almost 40 per cent higher.”

Lifeline fielded more than 10,000 calls in three days in August and have received more than 680,000 calls this year alone. Picture: Supplied / Stock

Overall, there has been a 20 per cent growth in the calls made to Lifeline, which has been inundated this month, he said.

Mr Brodgen said this was a physical and mental health pandemic and help was available for everyone.

“We’ve seen demand grow 20 per cent since 2019 and it continues to ramp up,” he said.

“Five of Lifeline’s 10 busiest days on record have occurred just this month.

“These are challenging times, it is OK not to be feeling OK.”

The record-setting week comes as the AFL and Western Bulldogs join forces with Lifeline to raise mental health awareness in the community.

The partnership will also raise funds to support 300 more crisis supporters needed to man phones and text services.

“Lifeline volunteers have been working harder than ever since 2019 to support people at risk, and they need support to continue operating at this pace, Mr Brogden said.

* Lifeline Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14 (24 hours/7 days)

* Online chat www.lifeline.org.au (7pm – midnight)

Originally published as Lifeline has record number of calls three times this month as Aussies struggle with lockdowns