Launch of suicide services campaign

A CAMPAIGN aimed at creating awareness of suicide bereavement services is to be launched by the Minister for Mental Health, Jimmy Devins, this week.

Console's "Snowdrop" campaign will attempt to reduce the stigma associated with suicide and raise funds for the counselling and support services used by thousands of Irish people affected by suicides each year.

Just over 400 people died by suicide in Ireland last year, which was significantly more than the number killed on Irish roads.

The suicide counselling organisation Console said that each of these deaths affected at least six people and that most Irish residents had been affected by suicide.

Margaret Tierney, of Console, said that in the organisation's experience very few people who took their lives actually wanted to die.

"They just cannot bear the pain, and if they would just pick up the phone and call ourselves or other organisations like Aware or the Samaritans they could find a lot of help and support," Ms Tierney said.

Snowdrop pins costing €3 will be available in shops and pharmacies throughout the State from this Thursday until April 30th.

People affected by suicide can contact Console at 1800 201890.

© 2008 The Irish Times

This article appears in the print edition of the Irish Times