Converge International

In my own work experience as a psychologist and manager of the Rapid Response Centre, I have noticed an increase in calls from callers considering suicide.  It seems that as people are impacted by the financial global crisis their life pressures build, impacting on their work role and often relationships and family life.  When these stress levels increase they may lead to the loss of a close relationship and / or job and everything in life seems to spiral.  Some individuals find it difficult to cope and don’t know where to turn.  Suicide becomes the only way out even though the individuals rarely want to stop living. Although there is no direct evidence to prove that the global crisis contributes to suicide we are seeing the increased numbers in suicidal callers and managers who are calling to seek support for employees who have expressed a desire to end their life. It can be difficult as a manager, coworker or even a family member to know what to do when someone we care for says they want to end their life so it is important to know how to reach out and help someone in need.  Take any threats of suicide seriously and know there are lots of different ways to help someone. The following are some ways: (more…)

As a result of the devastation caused by the recent Victorian bushfires, our organisation has been heavily involved in supporting those affected.

The stories we are hearing are dramatic, incredibly sad, highly emotional, and have deeply touched the heart of those who are listening.

One of the most common requests is ‘how can I be helpful and how do people cope with such terrible devastation and loss?’ The information outlined below may be useful to you.  If you feel you need to personally talk to someone to help you through this process, please contact us on our toll free number 1800 337 068.

COPING WITH REACTIONS AFTER A DISASTER

Most of the events in our lives are situations for which we are relatively well prepared and able to cope with.  Sometimes however, events happen that go well beyond what we ever imagined we would have to face. (more…)