The AIS partnered with Lifeline to raise awareness of mental illness in Australia and help reduce the devastatingly high rate of suicide in our country.

Lifeline is a national charity that provides connection, compassion and hope.

Through 40 centres around Australia, their skilled and trained staff and volunteers respond to around 1 million calls, web chats and emails every year. They listen, without judgement to many people who are overwhelmed and may be thinking about suicide.

Lifeline provides a confidential service 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, every day of the year. Lifeline wants to train more volunteers to answer more calls and save more lives. People can visit www.lifeline.org.au to donate or volunteer.

Lifeline CEO, Colin Seery said he was delighted that AIS athletes were joining Lifeline in working towards their vision of an Australia free of suicide.

“By working with Lifeline, you join a movement of over 10,000 volunteers and 1,000 employees around the nation who are dedicated to providing hope through connection so that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moments alone,” Mr Seery said.

“Last year, there were 3,128 lives lost to suicide in Australia. Every life taken is a son, daughter, mother, father, brother or sister lost forever.

Suicide does not discriminate. The devastating impacts can be felt in any home, school, workplace or neighbourhood.

“The Lifeline Community Custodians will help ensure that people around Australia know Lifeline is here for them. The custodians will help reduce stigma and shape a more compassionate society, one that focuses on bringing people together and reducing isolation,” Mr Seery said.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, call 13 11 14.