Lifeline

Crisis Intervention Response Service

The Crisis Intervention Response Service is offered to family, friends, bystanders, witnesses and the wider community who need support, information, referral and follow-up counselling, following involvement in or witness to a traumatic event. It is a coordinated response between Police and Lifeline Newcastle & Hunter.

Lifeline's role is to respond to those affected by sudden violent and/or traumatic events. Initial contact from a qualified Lifeline Newcastle & Hunter counsellor will be made at the earliest possible time following the event. After the initial contact further contact and/or referral will be made only with the consent of the person requesting the service.
Lifeline offers immediate support and acts as a referral service and source of information which may include personal, emotional, physical, financial, medical and social welfare issues.

Trauma - The After effects

Responding to a distressing or frightening event requires a lot of physical and emotional energy. It is normal to feel some reactions.
After such an event you may feel:

• Exhausted and out of control
  
• Depressed, anxious or frightened
  
• Angry or unreasonably irritable.

You may experience:

• Sleep disturbances
  
• Loss of appetite or stomach problems
  
• Sudden distressing memories.

Coping Strategies

At times like this it is very important to:

• Avoid any increased use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs
  
• Talk over your thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend or relative
  
• Resume your normal activities and social contacts as soon as possible

It is normal to experience some strong reactions.

If you find it difficult to reduce your level of distress or require urgent support call Lifeline 24 hour Counselling Service on 13 11 14.

For a personal appointment call Lifeline's Professional Counselling Service during office hours on 4940 2000.