Are you in crisis?
If you are in crisis, our telephone crisis supporters are here to listen 24/7. Call 13 11 14 to speak with someone now or if your life is in immediate danger, please call 000.
What to expect when you call 13 11 14
Picking up the phone to ask for help can be tough, but on the other end of the 13 11 14 Crisis Support Line is a person who genuinely wants to listen.
When you call 13 11 14 our crisis supporters will:
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Listen to your situation
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Provide immediate support
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Help you clarify your options and choices
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Provide you with referral information in your area.
Hello, this is Lifeline...
How calling can help >
"Lifeline listened to me talk about everything that was overwhelming me. Afterwards I felt like I could cope."
Lee, 36
What is a crisis?
A crisis is a very individual reaction to an event or experience. One person may be extremely affected by an event, while someone else experiencing the same event may experience little or no negative effects.
If a crisis is not dealt with in a healthy way, it can lead to longer lasting mental health issues, as well as social and physical problems.
1. Talk to someone you trust
Often talking through your experience with someone you trust goes a long way to reducing your anxiety, and can help you to gain some perspective moving forward. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a loved one, visit your GP or contact a crisis line like Lifeline.
2. Look after your safety
Put your safety first. If you are in an unsafe situation, try to remove yourself or reach out to someone who can help you stay safe. If you are thinking about suicide, seek help immediately by calling 13 11 14.
3. Recognise your strengths
Your skills and abilities can help you cope under pressure. If you are having trouble identifying your strengths, ask a loved one to help you list some strengths that will help you in your current circumstances.
4. Get help
Manage your crisis through counselling, medical attention, self-help programs or support networks. You might need to try a number of options depending on your individual circumstances – it’s important to keep trying. Sometimes a crisis is a sign of a longer-term issue. It’s important to get help for problems such as mental health issues or financial difficulties.
5. Make a plan
It can help reduce stress and give positive goals to work towards. For example if you are having financial problems it can help to create a budget.
6. Take care of yourself
By eating healthily, exercising, and sleeping. Give yourself time out from your situation if possible –do things you enjoy. Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they numb feelings and make it harder to cope in the long run.
Interested in becoming a telephone crisis supporter?
There are countless reasons for becoming a telephone crisis supporter:
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A desire to give back to your community
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You enjoy helping others
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Fulfilling a study placement
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You're an advocate for mental health
If you'd like to receive an information pack on becoming a Lifeline telephone crisis supporter, simply register your details and we'll be in touch.
