Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Christmas calls to Youthline soar

Updated at 10:50 pm on 30 December 2009

Youthline says it's received 70% more calls this Christmas, suggesting many more young people are distressed and disconnected from friends and family.

The counselling service received 1437 calls in the two weeks leading up to Christmas, compared with 858 for the same period last year.

During the same two weeks this year, Youthline also received 6352 SMS text messages from young people, an increase of more than 50% on last year's figure of 4102.

A survey of calls received on Christmas Day 2009 showed the prevailing concerns were self-harm, eating disorders, relationships (particularly with family), friendships, loneliness and the loss of friends, through death or otherwise.

Youthline chief executive Stephen Bell says people who use the service tend to go to family and friends first, and if they're calling Youthline it suggests they aren't getting that support.

"It's often hard for young people to overcome the embarrassment and perceived stigma involved in contacting a helpline.

"It suggests a significant level of disconnect and distress in our society, when such large numbers of them nevertheless feel the need to get in touch," he says.

However Mr Bell says he is encouraged that young people are prepared to call for help rather than trying to soldier on alone.

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