An increase in suicides across the Central West has Lifeline volunteers worried while an influx of calls over the past month has them also operating at full capacity.
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And new lockdown orders for three Central West local government areas - Orange, Cabonne and Blayney - are only likely to place further demand on the phone counselling service's already-stretched resources.
Lifeline Central West CEO Stephanie Robinson said she for one, was "concerned" about what the next few weeks could bring.
"To be honest, there's been a real jump in the number of suicides in our region at the moment," she said.
Under new lockdown orders that came into effect at midnight on Tuesday, residents in Orange, Blayney or Cabonne may only leave home to go shopping for essential goods and services; to go to work if they cannot work at home; for education, if it cannot be done at home; to exercise within 10km of their home; or for medical or caring reasons.
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Bathurst residents who have been in any of the impacted areas since Saturday must comply with the same rules.
Ms Robinson says it is crucial for people to be checking in on family, friends and loved ones, or anyone who they may be concerned about.
"Obviously, when lockdowns happen and that sort of stuff, it makes it harder for people," she said.
Ms Robinson said it is crucial for people to be aware of and to take action if they think someone they know may be struggling.
"For those that are worried about somebody else, reach out to them and check in," she said.
"You don't know just how important it is to do that."
Ms Robinson said they had noticed an influx in calls being made to Lifeline volunteers.
For those that are worried about somebody else, reach out to them and check in.
- Lifeline Central West CEO Stephanie Robinson
"It's been a real struggle answering the phones."
For advice or assistance you can phone Lifeline on 13 14 11, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, or Mensline on 1300 789 978.
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