On World Suicide Prevention Day Lifeline has announced that it has answered the largest number of calls ever in a 12 month period. In the twelve month period to the end of August 2012, Lifeline answered over 500,000 calls from Australian help seekers on 13 11 14.

“Suicide rates in Australia remain stubbornly high. Although we are answering more calls but the demand from Australians in crisis is growing” John Brogden, Lifeline’s National Patron, said today.

“I tried to take my own life seven years ago so I understand the need for someone to be there when you are at your lowest point. And I know that there is so much to live for, even when you can’t see a way though.”

The most recent statistics (ABS) show that 2,361 people died as a result of suicide in 2010 at a rate of more than six per day.

Alarmingly, suicide continues to be the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-44, accounting for one in four deaths. For Australian males, the overall suicide rate was 16.0 per 100,000 a rate almost four times greater than for Australian females (4.5 per 100,000).

The highest suicide rates in Australia are in Indigenous communities in the Kimberley and Cape York areas where rates have been as high as 40 per 100,000 during the past decade.

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day which provides an opportunity to celebrate Lifeline’s contribution to the day’s global themes ‘strengthening protective factors’ and ‘instilling hope’.

“Lifeline is a crucial element in stopping the tragedy of suicide,” said Mr Brogden.

“Lifeline has been there for Australians in crisis since 1963 and we continuously strive to improve our service delivery to ensure each year we help more people than ever before.”

“On the 21st of August Lifeline answered 1,893 calls which is the greatest volume in a single day in our history.”

“Answering more calls is great; however Lifeline has also recognised that when it comes to connecting with younger help seekers we need to be innovative and think outside the box.”

“Our recently launched online Crisis Support Chat provides an online platform on which people can seek help. It’s proving to be remarkable success.”

Highlighting the importance of this service, a study identified that 57% of help seekers using Crisis Support Chat were assessed as a high risk of suicide.

“I’d like to recognise the enormous contribution that volunteers, staff and local Centres have made to the ever increasing service Lifeline provides,” Mr Brogden said.

“The dedication of our people is the primary reason why more Australian’s than ever before are seeking help from Lifeline.”

Lifeline is available 24 hours a day seven days a week on 13 11 14 or online via Online Crisis Support Chat at www.lifeline.org.au between 8pm and midnight EST daily.

Media Contact

John Mendel
Media and Government Relations Manager
Lifeline National Office
Phone: 02 6215 9442
Mobile: 0408 407 376

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