JOIN THE LIGHTING OF LIGHTS FOR WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY
The Cycle Against Suicide organisation has called on Co Monaghan people to come together for the ‘Lighting of Lights’ at 8 pm this evening, Thursday September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day. Cycle Against Suicide said the initiative was “a symbol of empathy, hope and support for each other during these enduring times” and in recognition of the severe impact of Covid-19 on mental wellbeing across the country.
It added: “Traditionally marked as a day to honour those who have lost their lives to suicide, this year’s event takes on even greater significance because of the immense toll that the pandemic has taken on people’s physical health and emotional wellbeing. The physical, emotional, social and economic impact that the pandemic has had across Ireland is aggravating mental health challenges and exacerbating the risk of suicide.
“In these difficult times, this ‘Lighting of Lights’, honours those who have died through suicide. Those who have lost loved ones to suicide. Those battling mental health challenges. And all people in Ireland as we stand together, united as one, to fight and overcome this pandemic. This ‘Lighting of Lights’ stands as Ireland’s beacon of hope, shining bright in the midst of darkness, bringing hope in the midst of despair, as we stand together in empathy, hope and support and to ensure that we all come through this crisis together.”
Cycle Against Suicide are asking the nation to become involved in the ‘Lighting of Lights’ by lighting a candle with family or a friend and posting pictures on social media using the hashtags #LightingTheLight #ItsOKNotToFeelOK @cycleagainstsuicide. WEBINAR Connecting for Life Cavan Monaghan are inviting people to participate in a World Suicide Prevention Day webinar this Thursday evening from 7-8 pm on Zoom. The online event has a panel of guest speakers including Eoin Kelly, who will talk about his experience of being bereaved by suicide and how he looks after his own mental health in the aftermath; and Kathryn McAree of Pieta House who will talk about her role as Suicide Bereavement Liaison Officer and also the Suicide Bereavement and Crisis Counselling Service. Miffy Hoad, of Mental Health Ireland will speak about the importance of self-care and ways that people can support ourselves and others with our mental health and wellbeing. Emer Mulligan, HSE Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention will address local and national supports and services to support mental health and wellbeing.
There will follow a panel discussion with the speakers where questions from the audience will also be addressed. The webinar will conclude with a symbolic lighting of a candle to shine light on the importance of suicide prevention. You can now register for the event here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/connecting- for-life-cavan-monaghan-world-suicide-prevention-day -webinar – tickets – 118438385399
This event will be held on Zoom. Access details will be emailed to registered attendees separately, in advance of the event. Remember that trusted support and information is always available. Visit www.yourmentalhealth. ie for information on #mentalhealth and services. Call the Samaritans on 116 123 for a listening ear.
