The Mayor of Donegal is calling for a national campaign to tackle the issue of suicide.
It follows the death of 15 year old Shannon Gallagher in Castlefin on Wednesday night- just weeks after her 13 year old sister Erin took her own life.
Meanwhile the HSE has set up a helpline for parents in Co. Donegal who may be concerned for their children following the death of 15 year old Shannon.
The HSE is also working closely with the school and local community to provide a wide range of support through psychology and mental health services. Significant mobilisation of services has taken place.
A local incident management group is ensuring that all services and supports are co-ordinated and provided on an ongoing basis to the family and wider community. Supports are also being offered to the staff and students in Finn Valley College in collaboration with National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS).
In addition, A LOCAL Helpline has been established for parents FROM DONEGAL ONLY who have concerns about their children. This Helpline can be contacted at 1850 400 911 and is now live. The helpline is available from 12 noon to 10:00pm daily including Saturday and Sunday.
Meanwhile, Young people who feel depressed or suicidal are being encouraged to seek help from their GP.
The advice – from the youth organisation spun-out-dot-i-e.
Communications officer with Spunout.ie – Ian Power – says it’s vital that young people, who may be feeling depressed, seek help….
In its programme for Government, the coalition ring-fenced 35 million euro for mental health services for young people – and calls are now being made for these primary mental health care facilities to be set up as soon as possible.
The Mayor of Donegal Frank McBrearty says the Government needs to take action….
You can call The Samaritans from the Republic of Ireland on 1850-609090 or from Northern Ireland 08457-909090.
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