Counselling Help to 20 Suicidal Irish People

Following on the pandemic when we were globally affected by the impact of Covid 19;  we are now experiencing further disruption to the peace and well-being of people through wars and the threat of war. Apart from the violence and death that brings, it necessitates many hundreds of people being displaced and trying to find a new start in a new country. Devastating for them but also difficult for the countries and people who welcome them in. 

This truly is a challenge to help people maintain their mental health amidst all the shifts and uncertainty that modern life raises.

Provisional figures reported by NOSP (National Office for Suicide Prevention) for 2021 reflect a figure of 399 deaths, [however this does not include late submissions].  Of those reported the highest number for both men and women was in the 45-54 year age group.  A time in life when many should be enjoying the satisfaction of having raised their families and being more stable in their work environments;  sad that those figures don't necessarily reflect this.

We at Hope Trust, continue to believe that there is hope amidst all the darkness and that, with support, people can once again find purpose in life.  One young man in the counselling room said that he had been crippled with anxiety and fear and mental turmoil, but that after only 4 sessions he was beginning to feel peace being restored.  He asked that he would be allowed to continue in counselling because he found it so helpful to be able to talk about what was in his head.  We, of course, were able to assure him that we would be there for as long as he needed us to be.

Another lady was shocked to discover that beneath all the anxiety and anger she had been experiencing she had been carrying some emotional scarring from her youth, that she had discounted and ignored previously.  Coming to grips with and processing that, helped her to change her perspective on life.   

Hope Trust organised a candlelit walk across the Shannon bridge in Athlone for the 6th time in support of all those who had lost loved ones to suicide.  This was, once again, a very moving time and people from different church groups and the public, gathered to pray for those struggling and to demonstrate their willingness to support and care for the devastated. In a season where so many were focussing on death because of Halloween, we believe life is to be celebrated and encouraged. 

We continue to look for opportunities to encourage people to meet in groups and form community where possible.  We believe this is essential, alongside personal counselling, to address some of the isolation and concerns that weigh people down.  Our hope is that, despite the uncertainties, the suicide rate continues to decrease and that people enjoy good mental health. 

Together we can make a difference!