merrion street

Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, Mary Butler TD, Minister for Mental Health and Older People, welcomes the opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention. She reminds us that in our communities we can make a difference through greater connectedness and working together. Sometimes, simply asking if someone is okay can make all the difference.

Minister Butler commends the work of the National Office for Suicide Prevention in the implementation of Connecting for Life, Ireland’s national strategy to reduce suicide. She also notes the great work of the resource officers for suicide prevention working with partners within communities to implement local prevention plans, developed by and for our communities.

Minister Butler said;

Today is not only a day of commemoration for family and friends lost to suicide, but also a reminder to take care of each other by listening and sharing our problems and helping people in suffering to get professional support.

Notes to Editor:

If you or someone you know is in a crisis, remember you are not alone. You can get help through:

1. The 24/7 Crisis text line: 50808 - Text HELLO anytime day or night
2. Your GP
3. Emergency Department
4. HSE Mental Health Services
5. Yourmentalhealth.ie or telephone information line 1800 111 888
6. Samaritans on 116 123
7. Pieta House on 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444

If you are experiencing stress or anxiety as a result of Covid-19, you can access free online or telephone support as part of the HSE and Healthy Ireland mental health promotion and well-being campaign, devised specifically for Covid-19. Details of supports available can be found at:

https://www2.hse.ie/services/mental-health-supports-and-services-during-coronavirus/