About 43 per cent of Australians will experience a mental illness at some point in their lifetime. And during those times, the chance to talk is of vital importance.

At Lifeline WA, people like Tina Baldwin are always ready to step up when someone needs support. Lifeline’s main goal is suicide prevention, but really, they’re there for anyone who needs someone to talk to. Tina, who’s been a crisis supporter for over 40 years, says Lifeline is more than just a helpline - it’s truly a lifeline for people going through some of life’s toughest moments. “It’s so important to just let people talk,” she says, explaining that Lifeline’s main approach is all about listening without judgment.

In addition to taking calls, Tina helps mentor new crisis supporters, showing them how to offer that same level of empathetic, non-judgmental support. Over the years, she’s seen Lifeline WA grow, especially in how they prepare and support their volunteers. Now, crisis supporters have access to resources that help them unwind after those intense conversations, something Tina says has made a huge difference.

For Tina, a day at Lifeline WA kicks off with a quiet moment to get ready mentally. The work can be challenging, so it helps to start with a calm mindset. Many of the crisis supporters also rely on each other’s support. They often gather for a quick check-in before answering calls, creating a little community where they can unwind after tough conversations.

Lifeline WA helps people all across Australia, including in more remote areas like the Pilbara and Goldfields. With one national number, Lifeline makes sure that no matter where you are in Australia, you have access to support. For remote areas this is especially important for those who might not have family or friends close by. Tina shares that Lifeline is all about “being there for people in regional WA,” giving them someone to reach out to when they feel isolated.

If you’re thinking about volunteering with Lifeline WA, Tina encourages you to go for it. She describes the role as both rewarding and challenging, reminding new volunteers that Lifeline’s job isn’t to give advice but to be there to listen. “We’re here to hear you out, to listen to whatever’s on your mind,” Tina explains. She wants everyone to know that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

After four decades, Tina has seen just how much it means to simply be there for someone when they need it most. Lifeline WA is all about that commitment, creating a safe space for every caller, wherever they are in Australia. And as Tina and her fellow supporters keep doing what they do, Lifeline continues to be a crucial support for people across the country, offering hope and connection when it’s needed the most.

BHP is proud to help fund their work, allowing Lifeline WA to train more crisis support volunteers so they can keep growing and supporting more people.