GARDAÍ have urged the public to reach out to loved ones and support services when suffering from poor mental health.
The plea comes on World Suicide Prevention Day, an awareness day which aims to tackle reducing suicide rates worldwide.
A garda spokesperson said: “The topic of suicide and of our mental health are not topics that should only be up for discussion when a tragedy happens.
“Unfortunately, this is human nature and people are often hesitant to open up to others when they are feeling low or having suicidal thoughts.
“We urge anyone who is reading this and who may be suffering to please talk to someone.
“We all suffer from mental health issues at some point in our lives and there is certainly no shame in that. Talk to a friend, talk to a family member, talk to us or talk to a member of a support organisation.
“Please do not hesitate to contact Gardaí if you need to talk or if you need support/assistance of any kind.”
The spokesperson went on to highlight support services available to people in need of help or advice. Please see below for more information on support organisations for those struggling:
Samaritans Ireland – 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie available 24/7.
Pieta. Ending Suicide. Beginning Hope – 1800 247247 or text HELP to 51444, available 24/7.
ALONE Ireland – 0818222024, available 8am to 8pm.
Aware Support Line on 1800 804848 or email supportmail@aware.ie .
Irish Hospice Foundation Bereavement Support Line on 1800 807077.
Text HELLO to Text About It on 50808 – a free and anonymous text support service, available 24/7.
North West STOP-Suicide Prevention – Call 0818 444 000 anytime.
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