Samaritans receive 1.2m calls and emails since the start of the pandemic

Samaritans have revealed they've received 1.2 million calls and emails from people looking for support since the coronavirus pandemic struck.

The organisation offers a "no judgement" service where people can talk about their struggles, emotions, or if they want to get something off their chest.

1 in 5 of the calls and emails they received since March were specifically about COVID-19, while many more were shaped by its effects, such as financial hardship, isolation and job worries.

Now they're gearing up for Christmas, which can bring with it its own problems.

Listen to Dr Liz Scowcroft discussing the issue on the award-winning #MentalHealthMonday Podcast

Survey finds evidence of Christmas worries

New research with over 1,400 of the charity’s volunteers found around a quarter have spoken to people who were feeling concerned about their wellbeing over Christmas and the winter period, over the past three months.

The charity’s volunteers said the most common worries were about being separated from family and loved ones, and how they will cope with being lonely during Christmas or having to spend Christmas alone.

Samaritans is encouraging people to look out for anyone who may be feeling lonely or isolated as we head into the festive season.

Other common concerns to emerge in the survey include people worrying about the wellbeing of loved ones who are already feeling lonely as a result of restrictions, and the impact of colder weather and shorter days. Volunteers also said that people were feeling concerned about their financial situation, with many questioning if they will be able to pay bills and buy presents.

Samaritans volunteers have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure their vital service is available around the clock for anyone who needs help. Since lockdown in March, volunteers have provided emotional support over a million times via phone, email and letters.

Last December, Samaritans responded to over a quarter of a million calls for help and over 10,000 calls for help came on Christmas Day alone.

Calling Samaritans

Jason, 50, from Reading felt his whole world had fallen apart one Christmas. After struggling with his mum’s death, breaking up with the mother of his son and the loss of his job, it all became too much.

Jason said: “The hardship faced by people trying to cope with the pandemic reminds me how overwhelming everything became for me at Christmas, to the point that I didn’t feel or see that there was a benefit to being here. Thankfully my ex-wife noticed my struggles and convinced me to pick up the phone to Samaritans.

“Although it was one of the hardest things I have done – that phone call changed my life and put me on a new path. I had completely lost my way in life before the call. Samaritans gave me hope and helped me to find my purpose again. For me, it was the smallest thing with the greatest outcome.

“Our own self-care this Christmas and beyond is so important. Take each day as it comes, have strength to reach out for support in times of need; for me that would be the best gift anyone could give themselves.”

Reaching out for help

Samaritans CEO Julie Bentley said: “It has been an unprecedented year with the pandemic affecting so many people’s health and wellbeing. It would be a tragedy if we weren’t there for those in distress.

“We know that people struggle more at Christmas, as it’s a time when loneliness can really hit home. Regardless of what happens with Covid restrictions, we want people to know that confidential support is available 24/7, and that we are there for everyone.”

Samaritans says it is essential to look after our mental health, and others, by continuing to check in on anyone who may be struggling and encourage them to reach out for support whether it’s with a friend, family member or a confidential helpline like Samaritans. Our volunteers are always there to listen, and they won’t judge or tell you what to do. Call for free on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.

Thousands of dedicated Samaritans volunteers will be helping people to cope over the festive period, with around 1,500 expected to make themselves available on Christmas Day alone.

Listen to Dr Liz Scowcroft discussing the issue on the award-winning #MentalHealthMonday Podcast

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