PROJECTS NEWS
Lifeline launches new Cannabis Information and Helpline 1800 30 40 50
The National Cannabis Prevention and Information Service Centre (NCPIC) will be offering access to a new Cannabis Information and Helpline available on free call 1800 30 40 50. Reports now suggest that cannabis is the most common drug for which young people seek treatment in Australia. Cannabis use has also been linked with a range of health and wellbeing impairments, including mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
The aim of the helpline is to provide a national free call telephone service to the general community on all issues relating to cannabis. Trained Telephone Counsellors can provide callers with evidence based information on cannabis use as well as targeted advice and brief intervention for cannabis users, their families and concerned others. Lifeline Australia, as a consortium member of NCPIC, is providing this new service.
If you know of anyone who could benefit from using this service please let them know about the free call number 1800 30 40 50.
PARTNERSHIPS / SUPPORTER NEWS
Pacific Brands partners with Lifeline
Lifeline Australia is excited to enter into a new corporate support partnership with Pacific Brands. In late 2007, Pacific Brands generously donated a significant amount of clothing and manchester items to Lifeline for resale in our large network of retail outlets around Australia. These high quality donations have enabled Lifeline to attract more customers into our retail outlets, and to generate additional income to support the delivery of Lifeline services. This is in addition to providing Lifeline shoppers with some great purchases at a reduced price.
Pacific Brands is also actively encouraging their staff to become Lifeline volunteers in 2008, and we are hopeful that with this support, we can boost our volunteer network, whilst training their employees in some useful life skills.
SUICIDE PREVENTION & EMOTIONAL WELLBEING
Coping after the suicide of a loved one
Many Australians would not be aware of just how many people are impacted by suicide each year. With roughly 2,100 suicide deaths registered with the ABS in Australia annually and an estimated further 20,000 people affected by the suicide of a friend or family member, it is important that resources and services are available to support those effected.
Lifeline provides access to various suicide prevention, education and early intervention services. Support must also be available to those who are bereaved by suicide – left to cope with the loss of a loved one.
For all the talk of suicide however, it is still a relatively rare event, which can make it all the more difficult for those coping in the aftermath of such a loss, as they can feel alone in facing their feelings which may include: confusion, guilt, anger, shame and deep sorrow.
If you or someone you know has lost a loved one to suicide, please remember that support is available. Many communities have “Support After Suicide” support groups. Download the “Survivors of Suicide” booklet for more information or order a hard copy of the booklet by calling Lifeline Australia on 02 6215 9400 or Lifeline Australia via national@lifeline.org.au.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Major national fundraising and awareness event
In 2008, Lifeline Australia will embark on a major National Fundraising Initiative.This is the first of its kind for Lifeline and the proceeds will support the costs for Lifeline’s 24 hour telephone counselling service. Planning is well underway and we look forward to sharing the details with you in the next few months.So if you or your workplace is looking to support a worthy initiative in the second half of 2008, please keep Lifeline in mind and keep a space in your calendar for July.
CEO Message
Welcome to Lifeline’s first e-newsletter of the new year. In this our 45th anniversary year, it’s interesting to take stock of how far Lifeline has come as an organisation, but also to assess the current social environment around the issue of mental health.
I am proud that for such a long time Lifeline has played a positive role in connecting people with care, raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health and suicide. One of the greatest enemies of mental, social and emotional wellbeing is the stigma associated with mental health disorders - especially suicide. This is slowly changing through increased awareness and more accessible information. Lifeline has a range of very useful and accessible materials on our website.
My hope is that Australians will become more comfortable discussing the topic of emotional health and wellbeing and also in seeking help for themselves and others. There is still a long way to go but we can all play a role in becoming more informed and open to talking about mental health and suicide. We can do this by being mindful of the language we use, educating ourselves about available services, and watching out for the safety and wellbeing of those around us.
With ongoing community support, I trust Lifeline will continue to provide a comprehensive range of mental health support services for all Australians, connecting people with care for another 45 years and beyond.
Help Lifeline Save Lives….
Lifeline Suicide Prevention Fund
You can help Lifeline save lives by donating to the Lifeline Suicide Prevention Fund. This fund has been established to ensure the future sustainability of Lifeline’s suicide prevention, awareness and education service in Australia. To find out more or make a donation visit the Lifeline Suicide Prevention Fund page on our website or simply donate online now
LIFELINE
CENTRE IN PROFILE
Lifeline Canberra
Location: Canberra, ACT
Years in Operation: 36 years
Number of Staff: 17
Number of Volunteers: 350
Services Offered Include: 24 hour telephone counselling, Lifeline Gambling Care, Clubcare, CEAS (Canberra Emergency Accommodation Service), LYNX (Lifeline Youth NetworX),Corporate Training.
Website: www.act.lifeline.org.au
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