Do you hear that faint whisper of hope? That is Lifeline Aotearoa. It stands as a beacon of support for those in distress. Lifeline has been helping New Zealanders for over 50 years. Its mission is simple. It aims to reduce distress and save lives.
Lifeline began far away. It started in Sydney, Australia, in 1963. Only 17 months later, it reached New Zealand. The first New Zealand Lifeline opened in Christchurch on June 30, 1964. Geoff Hill answered the first call. His words were kind. He said, “This is Life Line. May we help you?”
Over the next 30 years, Lifeline expanded. Regional offices opened across the country. In 1971, Lifeline sponsored Youthline. In 1998, it launched a 24-hour helpline for problem gamblers.
Today, Lifeline is prominent. It is one of New Zealand’s most important helplines. It offers various services. These include training programmes. These programmes help businesses and community groups. Lifeline receives no government funding. It relies on public donations. These donations allow it to deliver its vital services. Lifeline is also part of Presbyterian Support Northern’s group of social services.
Lifeline Aotearoa provides 24/7 phone and text support. It supports at-risk New Zealanders. They receive over 10,000 calls each month. They also get 30,000 texts. People of all ages and ethnicities reach out. They struggle with many issues. These include relationship problems, work stress, and mental health challenges. Grief, abuse, bullying, and loneliness are also common. Lifeline helps many people at high risk of suicide every day.
Lifeline operates free community helplines. You can call 0800 LIFELINE. There is also a Suicide Crisis Helpline. The number is 0508 TAUTOKO. They offer a text support service. Text “Help” to 4357 for assistance. Highly trained teams answer these calls and texts. The teams work from centres in Auckland and Christchurch. Lifeline also offers specialist counselling. It provides corporate and volunteer training. They coordinate suicide prevention activities in the Wellington districts.
Lifeline strives to increase awareness. It wants to improve understanding of suicide prevention in New Zealand. They aim to reduce the associated stigma.
Sometimes, people need someone to listen. They need to know they are not alone. Lifeline’s qualified counsellors are available 24/7. All calls and texts are free and confidential.
If you are thinking about suicide, call the Suicide Crisis Helpline. The number is 0508 828 865. It is free and confidential. It is available 24/7. This helpline supports anyone in distress. It also supports those bereaved by suicide.
Lifeline Aotearoa stands as a testament to compassion. It is a symbol of unwavering support. Its services are invaluable. They offer a lifeline to those navigating life’s darkest moments. Remember, you do not have to face your problems alone. Lifeline is here. They are ready to listen and help.