Minister for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler has reminded people to take care of each other by listening and sharing problems, as she marked World Suicide Prevention Day yesterday (10 September).

She said that people could make a difference in communities through greater connectedness and working together.

“Sometimes, simply asking if someone is okay can make all the difference,” the minister added.

Help

The Department of Health has also reminded people that if they, or someone they know, is in a crisis, there are a number of ways to get help:

• The 24/7 Crisis text line: 50808 - Text HELLO anytime day or night,
• Your GP,
• Emergency Department,
• HSE Mental Health Services,
• Yourmentalhealth.ie or telephone information line 1800 111 888,
• Samaritans on 116 123,
• Pieta House on 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.

Law Society supports

Free online or telephone support is also available for those experiencing stress or anxiety as a result of COVID-19. This is part of an HSE and Healthy Ireland mental health promotion and well-being campaign, devised specifically for COVID-19.

The Law Society also provides information and supports for those concerned about their own, or somebody else’s, mental health.