Today, John Brogden, Lifeline Australia Chairman, welcomed the Prime Ministers appointment of the Hon David Coleman MP as Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.
Lifeline Australia Chairman, John Brogden said:
“Lifeline welcomes this appointment; the Australian Government has prioritised our nation’s mental health and well-being during what will be a protracted and long-term recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.
Lifeline commends Prime Minister Morrison for bolstering his ministry with a focus on mental health and suicide prevention at this time.”
Since the beginning of this crisis, Lifeline has been working hard to support Australian’s suffering from the mental health effects of the isolation and uncertainty of COVID-19.
“Over the course of the COVID-19 outbreak, Lifeline has responded to record numbers of contacts with calls to the 13 11 14 crisis line surging to almost 90,000 a month, that means Lifeline is receiving a call every 30 seconds.” Said Mr Brogden.
Lifeline expects that mental illness related to COVID-19 will far outlast the physical threats of the disease itself.
“The COVID-19 crisis has been difficult for all of us, but for some it has created extreme challenges.
During this pandemic impacted holiday season, it is critically important that we all stay vigilant about our mental health.
Our message to the community has been the same throughout the pandemic and will not change as we work to recover from this crisis. Lifeline is here for you. Our services remain open and our Crisis Supporters are ready to listen. If you are feeling overwhelmed, in crisis or emotionally distressed, it is essential that you speak to someone you trust, your GP or you contact Lifeline. Please call 13 11 14 at any time of the day or night.
We look forward to working with Assistant Minister Coleman in responding to the crisis support and suicide prevention needs of Australians throughout the lengthy recovery to come.” Mr Brogden said.
Lifeline is Australia’s leading suicide prevention service, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 40 centres around the nation. The service expects to respond to well over one million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day.
To donate to Lifeline, visit www.lifeline.org.au/donate
To arrange an interview, please contact: media@lifeline.org.au or phone: 0408 407 376