2030 Calls Received by Lifeline Fiji
Highest number of calls received from the Western Division
Lifeline Fiji’s National Crisis Helpline has recorded 2030 calls since its launch on February 26. The helpline, which was launched to provide counselling for Fijians left traumatised by Tropical Cyclone Winston, received the highest number of calls from the Western Division.
Lifeline Fiji executive director Archana Mani said: “The issues on which people called to seek help were distress over inability to meet their basic needs; seeking advice on which service provider to approach for assistance, family and relationship issues; domestic violence; child abuse and child wel- fare concerns; suicide attempts; suicide ideation and those facing severe grief over loss of their property and loved ones.
“All callers were taken through psychological first aid, regardless of the issues that they were facing and those showing signs for the need for long term care were provided with referrals and also advice on self-care,” she said. Ms Mani said they would soon be mobilising crisis support teams to Vanuabalavu, Taveuni, Bua, Savusavu, Ba, Rakiraki, Tavua, Ovalau, Northern Tailevu and Naitasiri with the support of the Australian Aid programme and UN Women.
“These teams will be providing Psychological First Aid to members of the community and will provide face to face counselling to those who show signs of grief and trauma, followed by referrals to services closest to their locations which the individuals can access,” she said. Ms Mani said the National Crisis Line was here to stay for the longterm and would continue to serve Fijians in addressing their emotional needs.
Edited by Filipe Naigulevu