Christmas support is available

Support is available over the Christmas period. That’s the message in an extensive Connecting for Life Cork campaign underway this week

Connecting for Life Cork is the suicide and self-harm reduction plan for the county, which is led by the HSE/Cork Kerry Community Healthcare

A new Connecting for Life Cork advertising campaign underway this week reminds the people of Cork that this can be a challenging time of year, but support is always available.

The campaign highlights the following 24/7 support services:

· yourmentalhealth.ie which is also available on 1800-111888

· Pieta House - 1800-247247

· The Samaritans 116 123 or text ‘help’ to 087-2609090

· Childline 1800-666666, or text ‘talk’ to 50101

· Text ‘hello’ to 50808

Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention in Cork Martin Ryan said preparations are well underway for Christmas in all parts of the city and county.

Mr Ryan explained: “This year more than ever, we are aware that this might be a challenging time and might bring up difficult emotions.

“We want to remind people that there is always someone available to talk to you and you don’t have to feel alone. The services we are highlighting are free, are open 24 hours a day all year around, and can either provide support, someone to talk to, or point you in the right direction.”

Mr Ryan continued: “Cork Kerry Community Healthcare will again be distributing posters and wallet cards with the support numbers, and they can also be downloaded from connectingforlifecork.ie.

“I’d urge everyone to keep note of this numbers, and ask for them to be displayed in homes, workplaces, retails outlets and wherever someone may see them. We never know when we or someone close to use may need them.”

He added: “At this time of year, it’s also worth reminding ourselves of the things we can do to look after our own health and wellbeing, including eating well, taking some exercise and doing things with others, again, see yourmentalhealth.ie for more,” he concluded.

The advertising campaign will run over the Christmas period.