Minister urges people take advantage of suicide advice and support booklet

People at risk of or affected by suicide have been urged to take advantage of a free Irish Examiner/Irish Patients Association (IPA) support and advice booklet by a Government minister.

The booklet, which is based on a 2009 investigation by this newspaper, has been made available in pharmacies as part of a new IPA campaign to tackle the stigma associated with the issue.

Speaking at the launch of the Let’s Talk Suicide campaign yesterday, Ms Lynch said the booklet — which is funded by an unrestricted grant from international drugs firm AstraZeneca — should be seen as a vital resource for those at risk of suicide.

The minister of state for disability, older people, equality and mental health added that the document — which was also handed out on Dublin’s busy Grafton Street yesterday — will help to further highlight the need to continue addressing the issue.

“There is not a community in Ireland that has not been affected by the trauma and despair that surrounds suicide, and there are no easy interventions that will guarantee success.

“The challenge of suicide prevention is now one of the most urgent issues facing society.

“However, I am confident that by working collectively, policy makers, families and communities, service providers and service users can respond to their challenge,” she said.

“I welcome the production of this excellent resource which, I am sure, will make a difference to many individuals, communities and service providers.”

IPA chairman Stephen McMahon called for the campaign to act as a catalyst for real improvements in suicide prevention funding and awareness — particularly given the increase in recession-related problems.

“Some experts predict 1,000 people of all ages and social backgrounds will die by their own hand in 2012,” he said.

“That’s a small village, a large parish, and more importantly the huge unimaginable vacuum in the lives of loved ones left behind. Each one of us has a role to play in protecting these vulnerable patients,” he said.

* Further information is available from the IPA by phoning 01-2722555, email [e-mail] or visit www.irishpatients.ie