Samaritans took nearly 640,000 calls in 2016 - and they still face their busiest time of the year

Almost 640,000 people contacted the Samaritans for help over the past 12 months.

Their annual impact report shows most people are contacting the suicide charity in the evenings after work.

A large number are also contacting the Samaritans via text and email instead of the traditional phone call.

This included:

· 606, 816 phone calls

· 13,444 emails

· 17,311 text messages

· 2,081 face-to-face visits to branches.

Deirdre Toner, Samaritans Executive Director, said this time of year is particularly tough for people.

She said: "Christmas is our busiest time of the year and I suppose the key is people feel lonely and isolated, and whenever there's celebration and family around, that's what I suppose enhances some of these issues as well.

"But there are the broader issues as well, the lack of money, people in debt, poverty, housing and Christmas highlights a lot of those issues."

Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Helen McEntee, highlighted the excellent work of the volunteers that are behind these services.

Ms McEntee said: "These volunteers ensure that those in distress can pick up the phone and speak to a friendly voice, no matter the day or the hour.

"This is especially important over this festive period. At a time where many of us will be spending time with our loved ones, volunteers will be scheduling shifts to comfort people in distress."

Anybody in need can avail of the Samaritans services by calling the 24 hour Helpline 116 123; by email on [e-mail]; or by visiting www.samaritans.ie for details of the nearest branch.