The Samaritans in Kerry are expecting in the region of 5,000 calls over the Christmas holiday period, with many people phoning the helpline simply because they're lonely.
That's according to Kerry spokesman Michael Mannix, who urged anyone feel lonely or distressed over the holiday period, to get in touch.
The Samaritans have had a presence in Kerry since the 1980s, and currently have about 40 volunteers who ensure the phones are answered 365 day a year, on a 24-hour basis.
The service is operated entirely by volunteers, receives no state funding and relies completely on donations from the public to remain operational.
In Kerry, volunteers typically deal with around 25,000 to 30,000 calls a year, with this figure usually peaking around Christmas.
During 2025, callers contacted the service to discuss a range of issues, including suicidal thoughts, loneliness, and problems associated with gambling addiction, which have been on the rise for a number of years.
Kerry spokesman Michael Mannix says loneliness tends to be the main issue over the Christmas and new year period:
Anyone who wishes to contact the Samaritans, can do so by calling free phone 116 123.
Calls are dealt with in strict confidence.
