Humans of Lifeline — Lifeline Digital Volunteer Crisis Supporter
Sonny Tuapola
“Before I start my shift, I like to play my Tibetan singing bowl… and when I finish, I play it again. It helps me reset and turns my house back into my home.”
What do you do for self-care?
The mantra is about starting your day in the dark and come out of the shadows. We meet at 440 and start our run at 5am. It's a 10km loop circuit of Bronte Beach car park. As you're running, the sun's coming up. You feel the energy going into you and being with a hundred or a hundred and fifty people just amplifies that feeling. Having all that is just amazing.
I clear my mind so I can help others. Ruby, my Boston terrier is a big part of that as well. She tells me when to take a break. She's right next to me when I'm chatting with my help seekers. Under my desk, next to my feet is her happy place. She can feel the energy going on.
Before I start my shift, I like to play my Tibetan singing bowl. It's part of my ritual before and after my shift: I play it before I start, and when I finish, I play it again. It helps me reset and turns my house back into my home.
It's been amazing to volunteer. I've learned so much, dealing with a lot of interactions from our help seekers. I've met some amazing people through Lifeline. The care framework, the support from my team leader, Andrew, and also from our in-shift supervisors who look after you when you first start your shift and guide you and help you if there's any escalations, has just been amazing.
Human Stories
The Humans of Lifeline
These Humans support lifeline in their own unique way, to ensure that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moments alone.
Read their stories →
Ways to get involved
Thanks to the unwavering support of the Australian people, Lifeline is able to celebrate 60 years of service to people in times of crisis. The generosity that you provide helps us be there for those who need us and equip communities across Australia to be suicide safe. Explore the ways you can participate in our celebrations and help Lifeline continue its important work for another 60 years and beyond.
