02 Feb 2018 The downturn in the Western Australia economy has created an increase in the number of people seeking Lifeline’s financial counselling service to discuss imminent bankruptcy. Lifeline WA Financial Counsellor Jenny Cecil says that people are seeking to claim bankruptcy after failed efforts to stay afloat due to unemployment. “With loss of income comes high use of credit cards to stay afloat until the family member can gain full, casual or part time employment,” she said. “The overuse of credit cards to pay household expenses, mortgage, rent and car loans causes significant debt burden with no means to repay. Stress related to the rising amount of debt can lead to marriage and relationship breakdowns and mental health issues.” Areas most affected are suburbs in the metropolitan area and surrounding districts. Jenny Cecil recommends seeing a financial counsellor to discuss options available other than bankruptcy if someone is faced with debt and unemployment. Lifeline WA’s financial counselling service sees clients from Yanchep to Rockingham. Key Information ⦁ Financial stress and unemployment are indicated as key factors that influence and increase suicide rates. Other factors include social and geographic isolation; difficulties accessing services; and greater availability of means of lethal self-harm ⦁ Lifeline WA, in partnership with the Federal Government, launched its Financial Counselling program in 2015. The program is free, confidential and assists people to work through their finances and increases their financial skills and knowledge. Back To News Stories