'Shattered': Offaly based mental health charity issues statement after recent suicides

The chairman of an Offaly based mental health group has issued a statement "after the community has been shattered by the heartbreaking loss of so many lives to suicide".

In the statement Joe Connolly, Chairperson of Acessible Counselling Tullamore, said:

"In the last few weeks, our community has been shattered by the heartbreaking loss of so many lives to suicide. Every single one of these tragedies is a reminder of how deep the pain can run and how many people suffer in silence, feeling like there’s no way out.

If you’re struggling, please, please hear me when I say: You are not alone.

There is help.

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ACT is available to everyone in the Midlands and beyond. We offer self referral, meaning you can reach out directly without needing anyone else to refer you.

Our support is timely, affordable, and there are no long waiting lists. Just a safe place where you can talk and be heard.

Taking the first step can be the hardest. If you’re finding it difficult to reach out, I understand. But please, take that step. Even if it feels impossible, just reaching out could change everything.

You can contact ACT directly by calling Ann Marie on 057 9352879, or email [email protected] .

No judgement, no pressure, just support.

And if you know someone who might be suffering quietly, please share this message. It might be the one thing that helps them take that first step.

We can’t undo the pain of recent weeks, but we can make sure no one feels they have to face it alone.

You are not alone.

With care."

Joe Connolly

Chairperson, ACT

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