Suicide awareness group ask Galwegians to do Valentine’s Day check in
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By Valerie McHugh
Mental health charity Ohana ZERO suicide are asking people to reach out to their loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health this Valentine’s Day.
Director at Ohana ZERO suicide Clodagh Fleming said: “Valentine’s Day can heighten the feelings of isolation and loneliness for some. We are encouraging people to reach out to those around them, and ask them ‘are you okay?'”
“Valentine’s Day doesn’t always need to be about love for a significant other, we can show our love through friendship, companionship and showing others we are there for them.”
The group’s slogan ‘Show you Care, Ask the Question, Make the Call’ is the key message being advised, which outlines the steps involved in showing support to people in our lives.
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Ohana ZERO suicide also provide a free, 20 minute, suicide awareness training on their website which aims to empower people with the skills to start a conversation with a person that might be struggling mentally.
It outlines the direct language that is best used and highlights the most suitable professional assistance available to direct the person to.
There is also a training tailored towards third level students on their website, with all trainings recommended to be taken by people over the age of 18.
The organisation was founded in 2021 by a group of mental health advocates with the aim of providing an accessible suicide awareness training for Irish people which may help save lives.
Click here to read more about the Ohana ZERO suicide training.
