Homebuilders – Never alone in lockdown

Even the most resilient of us will at times struggle with our thoughts and feelings, and at times they can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Stress, grief and fear are part of the human condition, and it helps to understand and accept how normal and common these feelings are. In these times especially, it’s good to recognise just how similar we are as humans instead of focusing on our differences. It’s also important to know that we are not alone at difficult times, there is always support at the end of a phone any time of the day or night. Aside from my counselling work at Homebuilders, I am also a counsellor at Whakarongorau Aotearoa / New Zealand Telehealth Services, which run a range of Government-funded services including for mental health, addictions, family violence and sexual harm support. These are free to the public and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

I have had the privilege to work across all of these services for the past few years and have nothing but admiration for the great support this team provides. They are humans full of empathy, compassion and non-judgement, who will walk with you in the darkest of times or simply be a sympathetic ear when you need to feel heard.

So reach out if you are struggling in these lockdown days, you are not alone and support is only a phone call away. Here is a list of some useful services …

1737 – Need to Talk? Phone or text 1737 or webchat. People can talk through emotional and psychological issues. www.1737.org.nz

Alcohol Drug Helpline. Phone 0800 787 797, text 8681 or webchat. Information and support about drinking or other drug use. www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz

Depression Helpline. Phone 0800 111 757 or text 4202. Support, tools and information about depression and anxiety. www.depression.org.nz

Elder Abuse Response Service. Phone 0800 326 6865 or text 5032. Advice, information and support with elder abuse.

Gambling Helpline. Phone 0800 654 655, text 8006 or webchat. Support for those worried about gambling or the gambling of others. www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz

The Lowdown. Phone 0800 111 757 or text 5626. Support to help young people recognise and understand depression or anxiety www.thelowdown.co.nz

Safe to Talk. Phone 0800 044 334, text 4334 or webchat. Confidential support from a trained specialist for anyone impacted by sexual harm. www.safetotalk.nz

The Family Violence Information Line – Are you OK? 0800 456 450 or webchat. For support and information about services that can help those experiencing or witnessing violence, or those who want to change their own behaviour. www.areyouok.org.nz