Lifeline shops across the Hunter Region have closed in a bid to help flatten the curve during the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the not-for-profit organisation will continue to provide online and telephone services for Australians in need.

Lifeline Direct Executive Director Robert Sams wants people to know that help is still available.

“Please reach out and encourage your friends, family and community to ask for help if they are struggling, as now more than ever it is important that we all stay connected,” he says in a message to supporters.

“We have an incredible team of people who care for others and we have been working on ways that we can both look after each other and continue to connect with our local communities.”

The organisation’s community-based training programs and new intakes for face-to-face counselling have also been stopped indefinitely.

Mr Sams adds Lifeline will have the programs back up and running as soon as it can because of how many people rely on these services.

Lifeline’s crisis support line is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.

There is also a nightly Lifeline Text program from 6pm to midnight on 0477 13 11 14 and Crisis Chat between 7pm and midnight via lifeline.org.au/crisischat.

COVID-19 is causing an increase in anxiety levels and these types of support are vital while the country is spending more time at home.

Mr Sams hopes people will share social connections while they remain physically isolated.

Go to lifelinedirect.org.au for more information or to donate to the Lifeline Direct Service.