ADAM HYNES
At the start of a new year we can start to re-evaluate things. We think about what we did last year, what we would like to have achieved and what we want to get out of the coming year.
A new beginning and a fresh start can be a positive thing for some. For other people, the problems and issues they were dealing with last year don鈥檛 magically disappear because the clock struck midnight on New Year鈥檚 Eve.
If you are still trying to figure out some personal issues, chat with a friend or family member. Talking with someone can help you feel more confident about tackling these issues in the year to come.
However, if you don鈥檛 feel comfortable speaking with a friend or family member, you can always call the Gay and Lesbian Switchboard.
The Switchboard provides a free, anonymous and confidential telephone counselling service specifically for members from our community in both Tasmania and Victoria.
The counsellors are trained volunteers who belong to our community, so they are aware of the issues we all face.
The Switchboard deals with many issues, from troubles at work and issues in your relationship, right through to people who are feeling lonely and need someone to chat to.
Sometimes people are shy about discussing difficult topics but there are very few things the counsellors haven鈥檛 heard before.
Even if life is peachy keen, the Switchboard can still be of assistance because they are much more than just a counselling service.
They are also able to provide information on a range of topics. For example, if you want information about what to expect at a sex-on-premises venue or about sexual health, the Switchboard can help provide you with it.
The most important thing to remember is the Switchboard can help you deal with any problems you would like to get sorted for the year ahead.
Make the call, have a chat and I guarantee you鈥檒l feel more confident about tackling those issues once you have spoken with a Switchboard counsellor.
Lastly, the Switchboard is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. If you have previously been a counsellor with the Switchboard, send an email to [email protected] as they are planning celebrations and would like you to take part.
info: Call the Switchboard on (03) 9663 2939 from Melbourne, or 1800 184 527 from regional Victoria and Tasmania. Counsellors are available Mon-Thurs: 6-10pm (Wed: 2-10pm), and Fri-Sun: 6-9pm.
