O’Donovan calls for focus on mental health on Suicide Prevention Day

Fine Gael TD for Limerick, Patrick O’Donovan has called for a renewed focus on mental health on Suicide Prevention Day, which takes place today.

“Every week ten people take their own life in Ireland, this is the fourth highest suicide rate in Europe. Suicide among men in particular remains a major issue that must be tackled.

“Progress has been made in recent years when it comes to talking about mental health issues but stigma is still a problem. Dealing with stigma is one of the biggest challenges we face in tackling mental health problems.

“Since the beginning of this Government’s term funding for suicide prevention had doubled to €8 million. We recognise that suicide is a serious issue, and that is why a new strategic framework is currently being worked on.

“A new shortened version of the death certificate has also been introduced to assist families coping with losing a family member through suicide. We need to talk about suicide, to talk about why it happens and how it can be prevented. And for families suffering from loss through suicide we need to provide support.

“While the State has a primary role to play in reducing suicide rates, other leaders in our society must also engage in challenging the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Community organisations and other local services such as the Gardaí, citizens information personnel, addiction counsellors, clergy, representatives of sporting organisations, teachers, parents, the bereaved of suicide victims and members of the public can all play a key role in reducing suicide.

“Today is about suicide prevention; it is about talking about suicide, talking about how you’re feeling and recognising the signs of suicide.”