Counselling Help to 20 Suicidal Irish People

Great news!  The latest news report from the National Office for Suicide Prevention indicates that provisional figures for 2020 are the lowest for 2 decades at 340 deaths to suicide.  Here at Hope Trust we are celebrating the reduction in numbers,  but it is obviously tinged with sadness that there were still 340 people we have lost to suicide and 340 families grieving.

We have always counted it a privilege to be able to offer support and encouragement to those who are struggling with low mental health or suicidal ideation.  This continues on in our counselling rooms in Athlone and Galway and over zoom.  We have seen a number of new clients covering a lot of issues - anxiety, depression, trauma, adult survivors of abuse, family breakdown and suicide.  Covid seems to have exacerbated many with minor conditions or pressured others into seeking counselling for the first time, due to all the uncertainty.

We have just this week completed another Bereavement Support Group in Galway where participants bonded together well and appreciated the process and opportunity to discuss issues that a few had not discussed previously with others.  The aim of the group is firstly to offer support to those who maybe stuck or overwhelmed by their grief.  Secondly to look at some of the issues that may arise during the process of mourning, normalising for some what may have felt irrational behaviour. Thirdly to help find positive ways of expressing big emotions, and to explore new ways of providing self care in the midst of their pain. Those participating applied themselves really well to all these concepts and we trust that they have felt supported through the process.

This year Hope Trust and a number of church members from different Athlone churches were able once again to carry our candles over the Shannon Bridge and walk into Athlone town.  The aim of the walk is to bring light into the darkness and offer support and encouragement to those who are suffering after the loss of a loved one to suicide.  This year we included those who have lost loved ones to Covid as well.  Many struggling would not have had the opportunity to say goodbye, or be there to help or support loved ones in their last hours or days.  We were grateful to have participation during the time of remembrance from young and old alike from 13 to 75 years of age.  Many having come in previous years and very keen for the people in Athlone to know there are those in the community who care and want to be there in support.

We hope to continue to offer support during the coming year 2022 and we would like to take this opportunity to wish you a blessed and peaceful end of 2021.  May you experience faith, hope and joy for the future!!

God bless you