The New Year can be a time of sadness, isolation and financial stress, the Samaritans say.

The helpline is reminding people that its volunteers can help people who are struggling.

Lesley Moughtin from the Isle of Man branch of Samaritans said: ’While it’s good to set goals and make steps towards personal growth, the new year can often present difficulties, especially when there’s so much pressure for people to "live their best life" and "new year, new me".

’We hear from people who are struggling to just make it through the day, so having the additional pressure of unrealistic resolutions or the need to become a different person can become too much.’

She said people don’t need to reinvent themselves.

’Instead of thinking and talking about what we need to change about ourselves, let’s think about all the things that make us great, or that we’re good at,’ she said.

’If you’re struggling to cope, or know people who are finding life difficult, we’re here to help.

’Our listening service is available 24/7 and calls from the Isle of Man are answered by volunteers around the UK or Ireland, so you’re highly unlikely to end up on the line to someone you know. If you need to talk to someone please don’t suffer in silence, pick up the phone and call us on 116123.’